"drywall joints have been my personal Everest"
Haha, that's exactly how it feels sometimes. Honestly, drywall finishing is one of those skills that just clicks after a while—usually right when you're about ready to throw the knife across the room. Wider knives definitely help, but it's mostly about getting comfortable with the angle and pressure. Sanding lightly between coats is smart too; saves you from discovering nasty surprises at the end. Hang in there, sounds like you're already getting the hang of it.
Sanding lightly between coats is smart too; saves you from discovering nasty surprises at the end.
Haha, I feel this on a deep level. First time I did drywall joints, I thought "how hard could it be?"... famous last words. Spent forever sanding down mountains of my own making. Honestly though, the biggest game changer for me was realizing you don't have to get it perfect in one go. Thin coats, patience, and learning when to just walk away and let it dry saved my sanity. Still not exactly pro-level smoothness, but good enough that nobody's laughing when they walk into the room anymore.
Haha, drywall sanding PTSD is real... I remember my first attempt—thought I'd nailed it until the paint went on and suddenly every bump and ridge was glaring at me. You're right though, patience and thin coats are key. Eventually you just learn to embrace the imperfections as "character."
Totally feel you on embracing the imperfections... I've learned to call mine "rustic charm," haha. Curious though, anyone tried using a wet sponge instead of sanding? Heard it's less messy but haven't dared yet. Worth giving it a shot or nah?
I've tried the wet sponge method a few times—honestly, it's decent for minor touch-ups or smoothing edges, but doesn't really replace sanding completely. Less dust, sure, but if you're after that super smooth finish, sanding's still king... just embrace the mess and grab a good mask.
