Finishing Tools for Wallboard Drywall

Drywall Tape Dispenser

• While you can apply the drywall tape by manually unrolling the tape roll, a dispenser will make the job go quicker. The roll of drywall tape is inserted into the dispenser, which you then can run along the wall and apply the tape. The dispenser holds the roll of tape in place and prevents the drywall tape from unrolling off the spool, which can happen easily, especially if you drop the roll of tape on the floor.

Drywall Knives

• Multiple sizes of drywall knives are required to finish drywall. Ideally, you'll want 5-, 10- and 12-inch knives. The 5-inch knife is used for applying the first coat of joint compound, then with each layer, a wider knife is used, which will allow you to gradually taper out the joint compound and get a smooth, invisible seam.

File

• Use a file down the edges of your drywall knives, especially if they are brand new. Drywall knives typically have very sharp edges and, if too much pressure is applied to them while applying the joint compound, the paper coating on the drywall can tear.

Mud Pan

• A mud pan is either made out of hard plastic or aluminum and is used to hold a specific amount of joint compound. They come in various sizes, but you should get one that is at least as big as the largest drywall knife you'll use. The drywall knife can be dipped into the mud pan to load it with compound; then apply that compound directly to the wall. Mud pans also come with a metal strip affixed to the top edge, which makes scraping excess drywall compound off the drywall knife easier during the application process.