Seams and Holes

• 1). Press premixed drywall mud into the seams between sheets using the taping knife as a spreader. Spread the mud beyond the seam by one inch. Vertical seams need the mud spread to the left and right. Work with one seam at a time.
  
  
• 2). Tear a piece of drywall tape to the length of the seam and press it onto the seam. Drywall tape has a visible groove down the center of the tape. Align the groove with the seam and smooth out the paper by hand. Fold the tape in half to create a 90-degree bend along the length of the tape before pressing the tape into corner seams.
  
  
• 3). Spread additional mud over the top of the tape to mask the edges. Smooth the tape and mud over with the flat edge of the taping knife. Apply more mud as necessary.
  
  
• 4). Repeat these steps for all the seams.
  
  
• 5). Scoop a little bit of drywall mud onto holes and punctures in the drywall created by screws or tools. Drag the taping knife over the surface of the hole or puncture at a 45-degree angle to press the mud into the hole. Smooth it over with the flat edge of the tool. Allow it to dry.
  
  
• 6). Sand the dried mud with 120-grit drywall sandpaper to remove any rough or high spots. Add additional mud and sand as necessary. Rub the sanded wall with a damp sponge to remove dust and debris prior to painting or adding additional mud.