Lesson 1
Managing small imperfections
Use the right filler and tools to hide nail and screw holes efficiently.
Tool selection
For small holes (up to 1cm), use a lightweight, ready-mixed filler. Do not use toothpaste or makeshift solutions, as they shrink and crack. You will need a 5cm steel putty knife and 120-grit sandpaper.
The process
Scrape any loose drywall paper around the hole. Press the filler into the hole using your putty knife, filling it just slightly above the surface. Do not overwork it. Once it is completely dry—check the manufacturer’s instructions—lightly sand the spot until it is perfectly level with the surrounding wall. Use a damp cloth to remove the dust before painting. Mistakes to avoid include sanding too hard, which can create a dip, or painting over dusty filler, which prevents the paint from sticking to the wall surface correctly.