crop man preparing wall for painting

Drywall Patching Guide

Drywall Patching Guide: How to Repair Holes, Cracks, and Dents Like a Pro

Tools & Materials

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Clean the Area
    Remove dust and loose debris from the hole or crack with a dry cloth or utility knife.
  2. Apply the Patch (if needed)
    For medium-to-large holes, place a mesh patch or use a drywall repair kit.
  3. Apply Spackling or Joint Compound
    Use a putty knife to spread compound over the area. Feather the edges to blend with the wall.
  4. Let It Dry
    Allow compound to dry fully — check the instructions on the product you’re using (usually 1-2 hours.)
  5. Sand Smooth
    Use a fine-grit sanding sponge to smooth the surface. Wipe away dust with a dry cloth.
  6. Repeat If Needed
    For deeper patches, repeat steps 3-5 with a second coat.
  7. Prime the Surface
    Apply primer to prevent flashing (visible dull spots) through the final paint.
  8. Paint to Match
    Paint over the patch using the same color and finish as the rest of the wall — or follow our full painting guide here for pro-level results.

Pro Tips for Seamless Patches

Use lightweight spackle for small holes — it dries fast and sands easily.

Feather the edges of your compound to blend the patch into the wall.

Don’t over-sand — too much pressure can damage the area around the patch.

Test paint match first on a hidden area or scrap drywall if you’re unsure.

Prime before painting to avoid flashing (visible dull spots)

Smooth Walls Deserve a Fresh Finish

Now that you’ve patched like a pro, give your walls the upgrade they deserve. Our Painting Guide walks you through flawless finishes step-by-step.

Done Patching? Let’s Keep Building.

Whether you’re ready to paint, lay flooring, or install shelving, we’ve got step-by-step DIY guides to take you all the way from patch to polish.

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Tools We Recommend for Drywall Repair

These beginner-friendly picks make drywall patching easier, cleaner, and faster — and they’re what we reach for ourselves.

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