Use standard spackling compound with putty knife and sandpaper

Apply pre-mixed spackling compound into nail holes, screw holes, dents, and hairline cracks, then sand smooth once dry. This is the most reliable method for small wall repairs in drywall and plaster.

Steps

1. Clean loose debris from the hole or crack
2. Press spackle firmly into the void with a flexible putty knife held at a low angle
3. Scrape off excess in one smooth pass, leaving the fill slightly proud of the surface
4. Let dry completely (2–4 hours depending on depth and humidity); apply a second coat if it shrinks below the surface
5. Sand flush with 220-grit sandpaper on a sanding block
6. Wipe dust with a damp cloth, then prime before painting to avoid flashing

Tips

• Standard spackle cures harder than lightweight formulas—better for high-contact areas
• Use a sanding block, not loose sandpaper, to keep the surface flat
• A pint of spackle handles 50+ nail-sized holes and costs $4–7
• Never skip primer over patched spots—unprimed spackle absorbs paint differently, especially with satin or semi-gloss finishes