This story covers methods for fixing small holes in drywall.
When you consider that drywall covers the vast majority of your home's walls and ceilings, it's almost inevitable you'll occasionally need to fill a hole. Sometimes the culprit is a doorknob, or a playful youngster -- or both. A protective doorknob medallion that sticks or screws onto the wall can hide and prevent this kind of dent. Even in new home construction, it's quite possible that at least one wall will have a patch before it's had its first coat of paint.
You'll simplify the repair process by making the patch first, then tracing its outline onto the wall. When you cut the hole, you know the patch will fit. Reversing the procedure results in a tedious trial-and-error sequence.
Home centers or hardware stores also stock a variety of drywall patches that can speed the repair. Some patches have a self-adhesive back; others must be embedded into joint compound.
It's a good idea to patch holes promptly. If you wait until a day before guests arrive, you probably won't have enough drying time for the coats of compound and touch-up paint.
Checklist
Time
Allow 30 minutes to insert the patch and apply the first coat of compound
Tools
Square, utility knife, saw to cut plywood strips, jab saw, drill/driver, joint compound, mud pan, drywall knife
Skills
Cutting drywall, driving screws, applying tape and joint compound
Prep
Put down a dropcloth to protect finished flooring
Materials
Plywood strips, screws, scrap drywall panel for patch material, drywall tape
