How to Do Sheetrock Taping

Open the container of joint compound and stir it well. If it is very difficult to stir, add a little water. The finished product should have the consistency of warm cake frosting.

Measure and cut the length of the drywall tape. Cut it about 1 inch shy of the total length to prevent overlapping at the end of the tape. Overlapping tape where the vertical and horizontal tape applications meet will create too much bulk.

Place a generous amount of joint compound into the drywall pan so it is about 1/3 full. Using a drywall pan and refilling it as needed is easier than traveling back and forth to the bucket of joint compound.

Apply fiberglass tape with adhesive backing directly to the Sheetrock seams, smoothing it as you work so the tape lies flat. If you are using paper tape, follow the next step.

Dip a 6-inch drywall knife into the joint compound about halfway. Spread a thin coating of joint compound onto the drywall seams wide enough to reach just beyond the width of the tape.

Spread a thin coating of joint compound onto one side of the paper tape, ensuring that the entire surface is covered. Center the tape over the seam, the coated side to the wall, and apply it to the wall, smoothing it flat as you go.

Apply a thin coating of joint compound down the entire length of the outside of the tape in a long, smooth motion. Then run the drywall knife slowly down the length of the tape to further smooth it into place. Use long, smooth strokes. Avoid pressing too hard on the tape. As joint compound oozes out from either side of the tape, use the edge of the knife to skim off the excess.

Allow the joint compound to dry for the time recommended by the manufacturer.

Apply a second coat of joint compound once the first coating has completely dried. Use a 10-inch drywall knife to apply a liberal amount of joint compound over the first coat, feathering it a few inches beyond the tape's borders on either side. Angle the knife slightly so that the joint compound covers the tape well. Skim off the excess.

Apply a third coat if desired. Allow the last coat of joint compound to thoroughly dry before lightly sanding it until smooth and flush with the drywall.