1. Measure the size of the hole



You need to work out the size of the hole that you want to repair as different sizes of holes require different methods of repair. If it's a very small hole then simply patching it with some compound is enough. When it has dried then you should sand back the spot for an even finish.

If the hole you want to repair is a bit bigger, perhaps as big as a light switch box then you should fill the hole with some newspaper before you apply the compound. This means that you don't need to use as much compound.

For holes that are around 30cmx30cm you should use hot patching. This means that you fill the hole with some drywall.

For very large holes, like the size of your in your wall you will need to treat them as new areas that need recovering. Start by removing any nails and screws that are sticking up through the plasterboard. Cut a new piece of dry walling and secure it into place, then tape and finish as normal.

So first thing to do is to measure the hole and then see what method is suitable.

2. Preparation

When you've found the right technique to fix your hole then you need to make sure you have everything you need in order to fix it. You will need some specific supplies in order to complete the project. When the compound is mixed you need to work quite quickly so that you don't risk it drying too quickly.

If you are filling a large hole then make sure that the drywall is already cut to shape before you mix the compound. Make sure you double check any measurements so that everything is correct.

3. Don't Over Spackle

If you have a large hole then simply applying compound isn't good enough because there's nothing for the compound to stick to. This patch will almost certainly crack or fall out in the near future. You should apply as little compound as possible and make sure it is smooth and even. Applying too much compound means that you will have a long time sanding down the excess!

4. Be patient

When you are trying to complete any project then you need to be patient as it won't all be possible over night. If you try to sand the compound before it is completely dry then you will make a lot of mess and you might have to start again from the beginning. You need to consider that you need some time to relax, you can't spend all of your time on these projects.

5. Sanding and Finishing

The compound might look like its smooth, but it's not. You need to sand it the best you possibly can. There might be very small bumps which you don't notice. Sand down the area so that the wall is completely smooth before painting.