Small holes and dents
Fill with lightweight spackle, let it dry, sand smooth and prime. A thin second coat hides the edges.
Medium holes
A self-adhesive mesh patch covers holes up to a few inches. Cover it with joint compound, feather the edges wide and sand.
Large holes
Cut a clean square around the damage, add backing strips, screw in a new piece and tape and mud the seams.
Cracks
Cut out loose material, apply tape and compound. If cracks return, the cause may be movement and needs a different approach.
Texture
Match the wall texture with spray, roller or brush. Practice on scrap first.
Prime and paint
Primer seals the repair so it does not flash. Paint the whole wall section for an even look.
Our advice in one sentence
Thin coats, wide feathering and primer are what make a patch disappear.
