Good call on the angled lighting, but honestly, sanding technique matters just as much. I used to obsess over lighting until I realized using a wider sanding block and feathering out the edges gradually made uneven joints way less noticeable—even in harsh daylight. Worth trying next time...
"using a wider sanding block and feathering out the edges gradually made uneven joints way less noticeable—even in harsh daylight."
Totally agree on the sanding technique. I used to spend hours tweaking lighting angles, convinced that was the key, until I tackled a renovation project in a room with huge south-facing windows. No matter how I positioned the lights, every imperfection jumped out midday. Finally switched to a wider sanding block and took my time feathering the edges—made a world of difference. Lighting helps, sure, but technique is king...
Gotta say, sanding technique is important, but honestly, I've found that using a skim coat of joint compound over the entire area saves me way more headaches. Sanding endlessly just drives me nuts (and covers everything in dust). A thin skim coat, quick sand, and imperfections practically vanish—even in brutal afternoon sun. Plus, less dust means fewer dirty looks from the family...
Totally get where you're coming from with the skim coat tip. Wish I'd seen this thread a month ago—I spent an entire weekend sanding drywall joints in our guest room, and it looked like a flour bomb went off in there. My wife still brings it up whenever I mention starting another project, haha. Next time, definitely trying your skim coat method... anything to avoid another dust apocalypse and family side-eye.
"anything to avoid another dust apocalypse and family side-eye."
Haha, been there myself—drywall dust is the glitter of home improvement, it sticks around forever. Skim coating definitely helps cut down on the mess, but I've also found that using a drywall vacuum sander attachment can be a lifesaver. It doesn't eliminate dust completely, but it makes cleanup way easier. Have you tried one of those yet, or are you strictly going the skim coat route next time?
