Getting smooth drywall joints without losing your mind

- Totally agree on hot mud giving a tighter finish - pre-mixed just doesn't seem to bond as well, especially on crumbly old plaster.
- I’ve found that if I mix the 20-minute stuff a little thicker for the first coat, it helps fill those deep gaps better.
- Sanding is brutal, but I’ve started using a vacuum sander attachment... makes a huge difference, though it’s a pain to lug around.
- Ever tried mesh tape instead of paper for those sketchy spots? Not perfect, but sometimes it saves me from a redo.

Mesh tape’s been a lifesaver for me on those weird, crumbly corners - though I swear it’s a magnet for bubbles if I’m not careful. Hot mud is definitely less forgiving, but the finish is worth it. That vacuum sander is a workout, but way better than dust everywhere. You’re definitely not alone in the struggle... drywall finishing is basically an art form.

Mesh tape’s been a lifesaver for me on those weird, crumbly corners - though I swear it’s a magnet for bubbles if I’m not careful.

Honestly, I’ve had more luck with paper tape on corners. Mesh always seems to rebel on me - bubbles, frayed edges, you name it. Maybe it’s just my luck, but I’ll take a little extra time with paper if it means fewer touch-ups later. And don’t get me started on hot mud... I blink and it’s already set.

Paper tape’s definitely less temperamental for me too, especially on inside corners. Mesh just doesn’t want to lay flat sometimes, and if you miss a spot with the mud underneath, it’s bubble city. I’ve found if I really press the mesh in and use a thinner first coat, it helps, but honestly, paper’s just more forgiving. Hot mud’s a race against the clock - if I’m not prepped, I end up sanding way more than I want to. Ever tried the premixed stuff for final coats? It’s slower but way easier to feather out.

I get what you mean about paper tape being easier, but I actually kinda like mesh for repairs and patches. Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like it’s less likely to crack down the line, especially over old seams. The bubbling is a pain, though - totally agree there. I’ve only used hot mud a couple times and yeah, that stuff sets up fast... I always end up rushing and making a mess. As for premixed, is it just me or does it take forever to dry in humid weather? Sometimes feels like I’m waiting days before I can sand.