How to Fix Holes in Walls Left by Nails

Remove loose paint around the hole, using a sharp knife. Loose paint must be removed so it does not peel further and create more damage to the wall. Gently use the knife and cut away places where the paint is loose from the wall.

Use drywall spackle to fill the hole and level the areas where you removed the loose paint. Use the spackle spreader to cover the damaged area. Do not apply the paste too thick. It doubles the recommended drying time. Use a thin layer to start, then build upon it if it needs to be any more even.

Sand the drywall until it is even with the rest of the wall. Rub the sandpaper across the area, in a back-and-forth motion, until it is even and smooth. Use the tack cloth to remove dust and dirt from the wall and keep it from getting into your new paint finish.

Use a primer over the drywall spackle to seal porous areas and to give the surface an even texture. If paint is applied directly over spackle, you risk an uneven paint job, where some spots look glossier than others. Wait for the primer to dry before continuing. Refer to the manufacturer’s directions for drying times.

Paint over the primer with a high-quality roller or brush. High-quality paint tools are more durable and give you a more even finish than cheap tools. Apply a first coat and wait for it to dry. If there are areas that are not even, apply a second coat over the primer.