Ceiling repairs are generally the same as wall repairs, and whether the surface is drywall or plaster, it's usually most effective to make patches with drywall and drywall compound (also called "mud"). For very small holes, such as old screw holes, fill them with fast-drying spackle, which can be painted over in a matter of minutes. For holes up to about 1 1/2 to 2 inches, you can patch them with drywall mud and one or two (crossed) strips of paper drywall joint tape. The tape is necessary to keep the mud from cracking when it dries. Patching larger holes is easiest with a homemade patch cut from scrap drywall.
Instructions
1. Measure the hole, and cut a piece of drywall that is at least 3 inches wider and longer than the hole.
2. Mark the hole's dimensions onto the backside center of the patch, then draw an outline that matches the hole. Score along the outline with a utility knife to cut through the back paper. Extend the scored lines straight out to the outside edges of the patch.
3. Snap the drywall along the lines, breaking the gypsum core but leaving the white face paper intact. Carefully peel the core of each waste piece away from the face paper. When you're done, you'll have the hole-shaped patch in the middle surrounded by 1 1/2-wide flanges of face paper (viewing from the backside).
4. Spread a 1/8-inch-thick layer of mud in a 2-inch (min.) swath around the ceiling hole, using a drywall knife. Apply a liberal coating of mud to the edges of the patch center. Paste the patch into place and support it with one hand while smoothing the face paper with the knife. Work the knife outward from the center, pressing it firmly to squeeze out excess mud from behind the paper. Let the mud dry.
5. Apply two more coats of mud to feather out the patch so it transitions smoothly into the surrounding surface. Sand the final coat smooth, if necessary, or apply a spray texture (see Tips) before painting.
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