Home Improvement
Home ImprovementUpdated 8/31/2026

How to Patch and Paint a Drywall Hole

Small drywall holes are quick to fix with compound, mesh tape, and a little sanding before painting.

Home Improvement
How-To Guides
Difficulty
Beginner
Time
1 hour + dry time
Budget
$
Safety
Low

Tools needed

  • Putty knife
  • Sanding sponge
  • Drill with mixer (optional)

Materials needed

  • Joint compound
  • Mesh tape
  • Primer
  • Paint
  • Roller and brush

Step-by-step

  1. 1

    Clean the area and cover the hole with mesh tape.

  2. 2

    Spread a thin coat of compound over the tape.

  3. 3

    Let dry, then apply a second, wider coat.

  4. 4

    Sand smooth once fully dry.

  5. 5

    Prime the patch, then paint to match.

Common mistakes

  • • Applying compound too thick, which cracks
  • • Skipping primer, causing a flashing spot

Maintenance & next steps

Keep leftover paint labeled for future touch-ups.

When to call a professional

For large holes over water damage, or cracks that keep returning (possible structural movement).

Editor's note: This is instructional content for How to Patch and Paint a Drywall Hole. Replace with your own firsthand experience and photos before publishing.
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Related Products

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12 items

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DAP Wallboard Joint Compound, White, 12 Lbs (7079810102)
Duck Brand 1.88-Inch by 180 Feet Single Roll Self-Adhesive Fiberglass Drywall Joint Tape, White (282083)
Canvas Painters Drop Cloth (Size 9 x 12 Feet - Pack of 2) - Pure Cotton Paint Drop Cloth for Painting, Curtains, Furniture & Floor Protection - All Purpose Thick Canvas tarp with Double Stitched Edges
Purdy 140853100 XL Brush 3 Pack
Purdy 4-1/2 in. to 6-1/2 in. Mini Threaded Roller Frame - 1 Each
Purdy White Dove Roller Cover, 9 x 3/8 in., 6 count
Purdy 140624612 Jumbo Mini White Dove Roller Replacements, 6-Pack, 4-1/2 inch x 3/8 inch nap
Purdy 2-1/2" Angle Sash Firm, Nylon/Polyester Bristle, Paint Brush, Hardwood Handle 144152125-1 Each
Purdy WhiteDove Roller Covers, 9 in. x 1/2 in., 3 count
Wooster Brush R017-9 Sherlock Roller Frame, 9-Inch (Pack of 2)
Purdy 14A751130 Revolution Roller Frame, Natural, 14" - Use with 14” Rollers
Purdy Marathon Roller Cover, 14 in. x 3/8 in., 1 Each
This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.