How do you patch a hole in your drywall?

To patch a hole in drywall, prepare the area to be repaired, apply a self-adhesive wall patch to larger holes, apply joint compound to the area with a drywall knife, sand the dried joint compound, prime the area and paint the area. This process takes about 36 hours and requires wall patches, a drop cloth, a drywall knife, a compound pan, a sanding sponge, safety glasses, a dust mask, primer, paint and painting materials.

1. Prepare the affected area

   Use a soft cloth or a clean, dry brush to remove dirt and dust from the area to be repaired. Place a drop cloth over the floor below your work area.

2. Patch the hole

   Apply a self-adhesive wall patch to the hole in the drywall if it is larger than 2 1/2 inches. Holes smaller than that can take the repair without a patch. Using a drywall knife, mixed joint compound and a compound pan, apply the compound to the area. Use the knife to get the compound flush with the wall. Allow the compound to dry for 24 hours.

3. Sand the area

   Wear safety glasses and a dust mask while you sand the repaired area with a sanding sponge. Wipe away any loose dust from the sanding.

4. Paint the area

   Prime and paint the repaired area.