Fixing Big Holes from Drywall Anchors!, by Vancouver Carpenter on YouTube. 5 min 37 s.
- Video length
- 5 min 37 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes plus drying time
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Mark a circle around the damaged hole with a pencil so you know the size of plug you need.
Score and cut a round plug from scrap drywall with a utility knife, matching the hole size. Peel off the paper backing so only the gypsum core remains.
Trim the hole edges clean with a utility knife so the plug fits snugly. Remove any loose paper and crumbly gypsum.
Test fit the plug. It should sit flush or slightly below the wall surface, not proud of it.
Spread joint compound around the inside edge of the hole, then press the plug in place. Wipe off the squeeze-out with your knife.
Let the compound dry, then coat the plug with a thin layer of joint compound, feathering the edges about 2 inches past the patch.
Apply a second thinner coat after the first dries, feathering wider each time.
Sand the dried compound smooth with a fine sponge or paper until it blends into the wall.
Wipe off dust and prime and paint the patch to match the wall.
Tips and common mistakes
Wear a dust mask when sanding drywall compound.
Keep each coat thin. Thick compound shrinks and cracks as it dries.
Feather the edges wider than you think you need so the patch disappears under paint.
If the hole is very large, cut a square patch and add a backer strip behind it for support.
Questions
Can I just fill a big anchor hole with spackle?
No. Filler alone will shrink and fall out of a hole wider than about half an inch. A solid plug gives the compound something to hold onto.
Do I need to use mesh tape?
Not for a small round plug that fits snugly. Mesh tape helps on larger or square patches where cracks are more likely.
How long does it take before I can paint?
Wait until the compound is fully dry and light in color, usually a few hours per coat. Sand it smooth before priming.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
