How to Paint a Patched Wall

Drywall compound or putty used to fill cracks and imperfections in walls can create a patchy surface. Since wall fillers are often a different tone and texture than the rest of the wall, it is necessary to prepare the patches before painting over them. It is not necessary to repaint the entire wall after patching spots; with the right preparation and materials, paint applied over patches will blend perfectly with the rest of the wall.

150-grit sandpaper
Primer
Paintbrush
Paint tray
Paint
Paint roller

Instructions

- 1
  Sand the wall patches with 150 grit sandpaper and feather the edges to make the patched areas even with the wall's surface. Sanding the patches will also create a rough surface that will take paint well.
- 2
  Apply primer to the patched area, using a paintbrush. Primer will prevent the wall filler from absorbing paint and altering its tone. Allow the primer to dry completely.
- 3
  Pour paint into a paint tray. Use paint that exactly matches the existing paint on the wall. If you don't have matching paint, mix same-brand paints to achieve the desired color or bring a sample of the old paint to a paint store to find a matching paint.
- 4
  Dab a paint roller into the paint. Choose a roller just big enough to cover the patched area. Cover the roller with a sleeve that matches the texture on the wall.
- 5
  Roll the paint over the patched areas. Use light strokes and lift up on the edges to erase visible roller strokes.

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