The Easiest Way to Fix Drywall (Even If You Are a Complete Beginner)

Let's get real: drywall damage happens to the best of us. Whether it's a doorknob dent, a kid's wayward toy toss, or a "whoops" while moving furniture, small holes and cracks are part of the homeownership territory.

The good news is that you don't have to be a contractor—or even very handy—to repair drywall. If you have a couple hours of free time and some simple tools, you can repair most small holes yourself, and nobody will ever be the wiser that they were ever there. In this post, we'll take you through the simplest way to fix drywall, from small nail holes to those larger-than-you'd-prefer dents. Ideal for Colorado Front Range homeowners who wish to have walls that look their absolute best—without hiring the professionals each time.

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First, What Type of Drywall Damage Do We Have to Work With?

Before you grab your tools, let's identify what type of repair you require:

• Nail holes or screw holes (¼" or less): from curtain rods or picture frames

• Minor dings or dents (up to 2")

• Medium-sized holes (2\"–6\"): from doorknobs or accidental bumps

• Big holes (6"+): may require a full patch or support backing—not part of this starter guide

For the purposes of this article, we'll address small to medium-sized holes—those you can handle without slicing into studs or using power tools.

What You'll Need

Following is the bare minimum supply list. You can purchase everything at your neighborhood hardware store or large box store such as Lowe's or Home Depot along the Front Range:

• Joint compound, or drywall patch kit

• 4–6" putty knife

• Sandpaper (120–220 grit)

• Paint (to match your wall)

• Optional: self-stick mesh patch (if there are holes bigger than a quarter)

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Step-by-Step: How to Patch Drywall the Easy Way

🔧Step 1: Clean the Hole

Sweep away any loose drywall or dust around the hole. Lightly cut or press in the edges if they are sticking out or jagged.

🩹 Step 2: Patch It (for Medium Holes)

If the hole is bigger than a quarter, cover the hole with a self-stick mesh patch. This provides the joint compound with something to hold onto and keeps it from sinking in when it hardens.

🏗️Step 3: Spackle It Up

Grab your putty knife and spread a large dab of joint compound over the hole or patch. Push it in, then smooth it out in a sweeping motion (begin in the middle and pull out and away).

✅Pro tip: It's alright if it's slightly raised—it will tighten up a bit when it dries.

🕒Step 4: Allow It to Dry

Drying time will depend on the product (refer to label), but most light-weight compounds dry in 30 minutes to 1 hour. A second coat may be necessary after the first dried coat on deeper fills.

🧽Step 5: Sand Smooth

If it is dry, sand the area lightly with fine-grit sandpaper until the surface is level with the wall. Do not sand too much—you just want to feather the edges.

🎨Step 6: Paint Over It

Touch up with matching wall paint. If you have no leftover paint, take a small sample to your local paint store (Sherwin-Williams is our personal go-to) and they will match it for you.

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When to Call in an Expert

This guide is ideal for small patches, but if:

• The gap reveals wiring or insulation

• You notice water damage or signs of mold

• The wall is soft or crumbling behind the surface

• …then it's time to call a drywall pro or a licensed contractor.

Final Thoughts: You've Got This

Drywall patches are one of the simplest home repairs to learn—and that confidence boost is no joke. A patch here and a little paint there can make your house feel updated without spending a ton.

So the next time your wall gets a bump, don't fret. Simply grab your joint compound and patch like a professional.

👉Need Assistance with Larger Wall Repair or Entire-Room Renovations? Alpine Home Repairs helps Front Range homeowners with drywall issues of any size—from minor repairs to full-scale renovations. Whether patching after a plumbing repair or getting walls ready for a fresh coat of paint, we've got you covered.

Alpine Home Repairs