My work includes patching holes in drywall from time to time. And if the holes are in textured walls, either orange-peel or knock-down texture, I’ve got to set up my commercial sprayer to re-texture the patch. Between setup and cleanup, that’s a lot of work for a small job. As shown in the drawings, I’ve found a better way.
I begin a patch by applying mesh tape over the hole (l).Then I cover the mesh with all-purpose drywall compound (don’t use setting-type compound) applied with a 4-in, taping knife. This process patches the hole but also clogs the crevices that create the texture (2). Once the drywall compound has dried, I sand smooth the center of the patch. Then I feather the edges of the patch with an old toothbrush dipped in warm water and a dry cloth. I work my way around the patch (3), leaving a tapered surface that makes a gradual transition to the smoothly sanded center of the patch.
To finish, I prepare a mixture of water and all-purpose compound thin enough to produce a splatter. Next I suck some of the mix into a turkey baster and practice splattering on a piece of scrap until I get the effect I’m looking for. This step is important: Trial and error is the key to making this technique work. When I’ve got the right consistency, I’m ready to texture the patch (4).
—David A. Rojas, Las Vegas, NV
Edited and illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #144
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For me, this posting lacks graphics 2, 3, & 4. This has happened several times recently.
Since other users have also posted about this issue, the issue is probably at Fine Homebuilding or with particular browsers. Will it be possible to have future postings checked for quality prior to sending promotional E-mails?
I have the same problem not being able to see graphics 2,3,$ 4. I tried this in Chrome, Edge, and Internet Explorer under Windows 10. Please fix this and release again.
Only picture # 1 shows.
Using Safari.
Just like to add my "aargh" about the missing illistrations in this, and other, tips recently.
Same here - FREQUENTLY only see one graphic even when others are mentioned - ? ?
I am curious as to why the use of a setting compound is not recommended. I was lucky enough to be invited to US Gypsum's train the trainer course and at that time they were adamant about using Setting compound when working with mesh tape and patches.
Setting compound will not soften with water and thus could not be removed with a wet brush.
check out this "there's a better way" clip (same subject)
https://www.finehomebuilding.com/2009/01/29/theres-a-better-way-small-scale-drywall-texturing.