Drywall is gypsum (chalk) pressed between two sheets of thick paper into boards. This provides a nice, flat surface for covering walls that's far easier to work with than old-fashioned plaster, and gives you a far better result. Drywall also is more durable than plaster, which can crack and break over time. Still, drywall isn't indestructible. It can develop cracks or gaps along the seams of the boards, or holes from blunt force against the walls. Repairing drywall surfaces requires joint compound (a form of plaster) and patience.
Instructions
1. Remove all paint, plaster, drywall paper and surface material around the area to be repaired, using your vibrating sander. Let the sander dig slightly into the surface of the drywall for a few inches around the damaged spot or line.
2. Lay mesh tape over the area. Smooth it down into the indentation you made with the sander.
3. Spread joint compound over the tape, and about 1 inch all around it, with your drywall knife. Press the compound down into the mesh of the tape, then smooth it completely over the top. Let it dry for several hours, until it's solid.
4. Sand and smooth out the compound, using your drywall pad sander. Wipe away the dust. Spread down another layer of joint compound, making it a few inches wider this time. Smooth it out completely. Let it dry.
5. Sand the second coat of compound with your drywall pad sander, wipe away the dust, then apply a third and final coat of compound. Make the final coat wider and smoother than the previous ones, going several inches wider and feathering it out with the drywall knife.
6. Let the third coat dry. Sand it down with your drywall sander and get it smooth. Wipe off the dust. Repaint the area.
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