How to Finish Drywall for Beginners?

Finishing drywall is the key to a polished, professional-looking wall. If done incorrectly, imperfections like visible seams, rough patches, and uneven corners can show through even after painting.

This guide will take you through every step, from understanding drywall finishing levels and selecting the right tools to applying joint compound, sanding, and priming. You’ll learn:

• The different drywall finishing levels

• How to apply tape and joint compound correctly

• Techniques for smoothing corners and nail holes

• The best sanding and priming methods for a seamless finish

Once your drywall is completely finished and painted, you can also consider installing corner guards as an optional step. These help protect your drywall corners from damage, especially in high-traffic areas.

Whether you’re tackling a DIY renovation or just want to refine your drywall skills, this step-by-step breakdown will help you achieve perfect walls.

Drywall Finishing Levels Explained

Drywall finishing levels range from 0 to 5, each suited for different applications.

• Level 0: No finishing; drywall is installed but left untreated.

• Level 1: A single layer of joint compound is applied over seams. Used in concealed areas.

• Level 2: An additional compound layer covers screw holes and seams; common for garages and storage areas.

• Level 3: A second layer of compound is spread across the surface for light texture applications.

• Level 4: Fully sanded and smooth, ready for flat or eggshell paint.

• Level 5: A final skim coat is applied for an ultra-smooth finish, ideal for glossy paints.

For most interior walls, Level 4 is the standard. If you're using high-gloss paint, aim for Level 5.

2. Tools and Materials for Drywall Finishing

Having the right tools makes a huge difference in achieving a professional finish.

Essential Tools:

• Taping knives – 6-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch for different coats

• Mud mixing drill attachment – Helps ensure a smooth, lump-free joint compound

• Drywall sanding block or pole sander – Creates a smooth, even surface

• Utility knife – Used for cutting tape and trimming rough drywall edges

• Corner taping knife (optional) – Ideal for finishing inside corners

Materials You'll Need:

• Joint compound (mud):

• • All-purpose compound – Best for most DIYers

  • Lightweight compound – Dries faster but may not adhere as well

  • Taping compound – Used for initial tape application

  • Topping compound – Provides a smooth final coat

• Drywall tape:

• • Paper tape – Stronger, more durable, and preferred by professionals

  • Fiberglass mesh tape – Easier for beginners but may be more prone to cracks

  • Drywall sandpaper – Fine-grit for smoothing compound

  • Drop cloths – Protects floors from dust and debris

Now that you're equipped, let’s prep the drywall for finishing.

Step 1: Preparing the Drywall for Finishing

Before applying joint compound, proper preparation is essential for a smooth finish.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Cover the area – Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheeting to catch dust and debris.

2. Inspect the drywall – Run a taping knife along the surface to check for protruding screws or nails. If any stick out, tighten or hammer them until they sit just below the drywall surface.

3. Remove torn drywall paper – Use a utility knife to cut away any loose or torn paper.

4. Mix the joint compound – Stir the mud thoroughly using a mixing drill attachment. If it feels too thick, add a small amount of water and mix again until smooth.

5. Ventilate the workspace – Open windows and wear a dust mask to protect against drywall dust.

Once your space is prepped, it’s time to apply the first layer of joint compound.

Step 2: Applying the First Mud Coat & Tape

Taping and mudding the seams is a crucial step in drywall finishing. The process differs depending on whether you're using paper tape or fiberglass mesh tape.

For Paper Tape:

1. Apply a thin layer of mud – Using a 6-inch taping knife, spread a smooth, even coat of compound over the joint.

2. Press the paper tape into place – Center it over the joint and gently press it into the compound.

3. Embed the tape – Hold one end of the tape with one hand and pull a taping knife over it with the other, applying slight pressure to remove excess compound.

4. Apply a second thin coat of mud – Cover the tape with a thin layer of compound, leaving the tape slightly visible.

For Fiberglass Mesh Tape:

1. Cut and apply the tape – Since fiberglass tape is self-adhesive, press it directly over the joint.

2. Cover with compound – Use a 6-inch taping knife to spread a layer of mud over the tape, pressing it into the wall.

3. Feather the edges – Smooth out the compound, blending it into the drywall surface.

Allow the first coat to dry completely before moving on.

Step 3: Finishing Corners & Nail Holes

Corners and screw holes need extra attention to blend seamlessly with the rest of the wall.

Finishing Inside Corners:

1. Apply a thin layer of compound – Spread mud along the entire inside corner using a 6-inch knife.

2. Press paper tape or a flexible corner bead into place – If using paper tape, fold it in half before applying it to the corner.

3. Smooth and embed the tape – Use a corner taping knife or a standard 6-inch knife to gently press the tape into the mud and remove excess compound.

Finishing Outside Corners:

1. Apply compound over metal corner bead – No tape is needed for outside corners.

2. Smooth out the compound – Use a taping knife to feather the edges and ensure a seamless blend.

3. Let dry, then apply additional coats as needed.

Covering Nail and Screw Holes:

1. Apply a small amount of compound over each screw or nail hole.

2. Use a taping knife to smooth the compound.

3. Let dry, then sand lightly before applying another thin coat if needed.

Step 4: Sanding and Applying the Fill Coat

Once the first coat of mud is completely dry, it’s time to sand and apply a second layer to further smooth out the surface.

Steps for Sanding the First Coat:

1. Put on a dust mask and eye protection.

2. Use a drywall sanding block or pole sander – Avoid using a power sander, as it can remove too much compound too quickly.

3. Sand gently in circular motions – Focus on smoothing ridges and removing excess compound, but avoid over-sanding, which could expose the tape.

4. Wipe the wall with a dry cloth – This removes dust and helps you see any rough spots that need additional mudding.

Applying the Fill Coat:

1. Switch to a 10-inch or 12-inch taping knife – This helps spread the compound over a wider area for a smoother transition.

2. Apply another thin layer of compound over seams and corners.

3. Feather the edges – Spread the mud slightly beyond the previous layer to create a smooth, seamless blend.

4. Let dry completely before sanding again.

At this stage, the joint areas should be nearly flush with the drywall surface, and the tape should no longer be visible.

Step 5: Applying the Finish Coat & Final Sanding

The last coat of mud ensures a perfectly smooth surface, making it ready for priming and painting.

Steps for Applying the Finish Coat:

1. Thin the joint compound slightly – Add a small amount of water (no more than 1 pint per 5-gallon bucket) and mix thoroughly.

2. Use a wide taping knife (12 inches or more) – This allows you to spread a very thin, even layer over the entire drywall surface.

3. Apply in long, smooth strokes – Keep the coat as light and even as possible.

4. Let dry for a few hours or overnight.

Final Sanding:

1. Lightly sand the dried compound – Use fine-grit drywall sandpaper and gentle circular motions.

2. Check for imperfections – Hold a light at an angle to the wall to spot any bumps or uneven areas.

3. Wipe the surface clean – Use a dry cloth or tack cloth to remove all dust before priming.

Avoid over-sanding at this stage, as it can expose the tape or previous layers of compound.

Final Thoughts

Finishing drywall properly takes patience and attention to detail, but by following the right techniques—applying joint compound in thin layers, taping seams carefully, sanding smoothly, and priming before painting—you can achieve a flawless, professional-looking surface. If you want extra protection for your walls, consider installing corner guards after painting to prevent damage in high-traffic areas. Have you ever run into challenges while finishing drywall? What techniques have worked best for you? Let’s discuss!