I’m right there with you on the “gallery-perfect” wall thing. I spent way too much time obsessing over every little ridge and line on my first drywall job, thinking I could get it totally flawless. Spoiler: I could not. There’s something about that first swipe with the sanding block that just brings out all the stuff you missed, no matter how careful you thought you were.
Funny thing, I actually started with mesh tape because it looked easier (and it was bright yellow, which seemed like a good sign for some reason?). But after my first attempt, I had these weird little cracks showing up a couple weeks later. Like, I’d just finished patting myself on the back and then—bam—cracks. I switched to paper after that and yeah, it’s more of a pain to get it set right, but the results are just less... unpredictable.
I’m still not sure if I’m using too much compound or not enough. Sometimes it feels like I’m icing a cake with a shovel. The “easy sanding” stuff is nice until you realize you’re sanding half your joint off and have to go back for another round. At this point, I just try to keep the dust out of my coffee and call it good enough.
Flat paint is definitely my best friend now. I tried eggshell once and instantly regretted it—every little bump was suddenly in 4K. Now I just tell myself that a few imperfections give the wall “character.” It’s a house, not an art museum, right?
Anyway, glad to know I’m not the only one who’s made peace with less-than-perfect walls. If anyone ever does show up with a magnifying glass, they’re getting handed a sanding block and put to work.
At this point, I just try to keep the dust out of my coffee and call it good enough.
Honestly, I think you’re onto something with the “good enough” approach. I get why people chase perfection, but at what cost? All that sanding dust isn’t just annoying—it’s not great for your lungs or the planet, either. I’ve started using low-dust compounds and wet-sanding with a sponge. It’s slower, but way less mess and waste. Plus, like you said, flat paint hides a multitude of sins. Why stress over invisible flaws when you could be outside enjoying your yard instead?
Why stress over invisible flaws when you could be outside enjoying your yard instead?
That’s the thing—most of the time, nobody notices those tiny imperfections except the person who did the work. I used to obsess over getting joints perfectly smooth, but after a few flips, I realized it’s just not worth the stress. Like you mentioned, flat paint is a lifesaver. I’ll spend extra time on the main walls, but closets and garages? “Good enough” is my motto there. I’d rather save my sanity (and my weekends) for projects that actually make a difference.
I hear you on the “good enough” approach for closets and garages—no one’s inspecting those corners. But I always wonder, is there a trick to getting the main living room walls looking decent without spending forever sanding? I’ve tried different muds and knives, but it still feels like a time sink. Has anyone found a shortcut that doesn’t cost a fortune or leave obvious seams?
Title: Getting smooth drywall joints without losing your mind
I’ve tried different muds and knives, but it still feels like a time sink. Has anyone found a shortcut that doesn’t cost a fortune or leave obvious seams?
Oh, the joys of living in a 120-year-old house where every wall is more “character” than flat surface. I’ll admit, I’ve tried to shortcut the sanding marathon—once even used a damp sponge instead of sandpaper. It helps with dust, but you need patience (and maybe a strong wrist). I also swear by lightweight joint compound for the final coat; it's way easier to feather out. Still, if you find a true miracle method, let me know... my living room corners have seen things.
