Small holes in your drywall from picture hooks, door handles, or minor accidents are a common sight in almost any home. While they might seem like a major eyesore, you do not need to call a professional or spend a fortune to fix them. With a few basic tools and about thirty minutes of active work, you can make your walls look brand new again.
Learning this simple DIY skill will save you money and keep your home looking polished. Before you begin, gather your materials. You will need a small tub of spackling compound, a putty knife, fine-grit sandpaper, a damp cloth, and matching wall paint.
For holes larger than a nail nick but smaller than a doorknob, a self-adhesive mesh patch is also highly recommended to provide structural support. Having these basic supplies on hand in your utility closet makes it easy to tackle these minor repairs the moment they happen. Start by preparing the damaged area.
Use your utility knife or the edge of your putty knife to scrape away any loose paper, drywall dust, or crumbling plaster from around the edges of the hole. The goal is to create a clean, slightly recessed surface. Wipe the area with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dust, as spackling compound will not adhere well to a dirty surface.
If you are using a mesh patch, apply it directly over the hole. Next, scoop a small amount of spackling compound onto your putty knife. Hold the knife at a forty-five-degree angle and press the spackle firmly into the hole or over the patch.
Spread it in a feathering motion, smoothing the edges outward so it blends with the surrounding wall. It is always better to apply two thin coats than one thick, messy layer. Allow the spackle to dry completely according to the manufacturer instructions, which usually takes one to two hours.
Once dry, gently sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper until it is completely flush with the wall. Wipe away the dust with your cloth. Finally, apply a coat of matching paint using a small brush or roller, feathering the edges to blend the new paint with the old.
Once dry, the patch will be virtually invisible.