How to Patch Small Holes in Walls

Basic 101 Steps:

1. For small cracks and holes, I recommend a patching spackle that can be applied easily using a small putty knife.  Spackles are generally applied in one coat and then lightly sanded before repainting.
2. For a larger hole, I uses an adhesive metal patch that can be cut to size for reinforcement.
3. I use a putty knife to spread a thin layer of joint compound over the metal patch and would suggest building up many thin layers of joint compound with adequate dry time in between, rather than building up the joint compound too heavy and risk cracks.
4. I also recommend another technique for patching holes.  Using a utility knife, cuts away the surface layer of drywall an inch larger than the hole patch.  Why? This way the drywall tape lays flat within the existing drywall.
5. I then traces that piece over the hole and cuts the outline on the wall using a jab saw.
6. I then inserts a piece of scrap wood in the hole to act as reinforcement and screws it down using a drill/driver.  Screwing the drywall patch to the wood using a drill/driver.
7. Tape around the perimeter of the drywall patch using drywall tape.
8. Finally, covers the entire patch with a thin layer of joint compound.  Just like on the other patch, he recommends many thin layers of joint compound versus one heavy one.
9. Let dry completely before and lightly sanding and painting