How to Get Spackled Plasterboard Ready for Painting

Determine if Spackle is the best remedy for the defects. If the walls are full of defects, Spackle might not be the best product to use. Spackle works best for walls with minor problems, such as nail holes, cracks or small dents. According to the website Paint-N-Stain, you will need one quart, or less, of Spackle for an average-size residential room.

Use two patching knives. One should be around 3 inches and the other one 6 inches.

Scoop out Spackle with the small knife. Take the larger knife and scoop some of the Spackle off of the smaller knife and apply to walls. Avoid applying too much at one time and try to only fill in the cracks and holes so they are flush with the walls. Work your way around the room, filling in all nail holes, cracks and dents. After applying Spackle to each area, gently rub the knife over the area to remove any excess Spackle.

Let the Spackle dry. After it is completely dry, repeat the process by going around the room again and refilling any areas that need more Spackle. It is best to apply two or three coats of Spackle to troubled areas instead of applying a large amount of Spackle all at once.

Sand the areas. Sanding is not always necessary, but typically it is useful to make sure the walls are smooth. Use fine grit sandpaper and lightly sand each area after the walls are completely dry. With a damp cloth, wipe the area off to remove any dust from the process.

Paint the walls. After the Spackle process is complete, paint the walls with a primer paint and then with an interior paint color of your choice.