Yeah, lightweight compound is definitely easier to work with at first, but you're right—it shrinks way more than regular joint compound. I learned that the hard way flipping houses. Honestly, if you're aiming for smooth joints without losing your sanity, I'd suggest switching to an all-purpose or setting-type compound (like Easy Sand). It might seem intimidating at first because you have to mix it yourself, but trust me, it's worth the extra effort. Less shrinkage means fewer coats and less sanding overall.
Another tip: invest in a wider taping knife (like 10-12 inches) for your final coats. It helps feather out the edges better and reduces those annoying dips and shadows you're seeing. Drywall finishing is definitely a skill you pick up over time—don't beat yourself up too much about it. Sounds like you're already getting the hang of things anyway...
"Drywall finishing is definitely a skill you pick up over time—don't beat yourself up too much about it."
Totally agree with this! Drywall work can feel like such a headache at first, but once you get the hang of it, it's actually pretty satisfying. Another thing I've found helpful is using good lighting when you're finishing. Seriously, grab a bright work light or even just angle a lamp along the wall—it's amazing how clearly imperfections pop out when the light hits them sideways. Saves you from noticing those annoying bumps and ridges after you've already painted.
Also, don't underestimate sanding sponges. They seem basic, but they're great for smoothing out tricky spots and corners without gouging the compound. I used to dread sanding until I switched from regular sandpaper to sponges—made a huge difference in how quickly things went and how clean the finish looked afterward.
Sounds like you're already figuring things out though... drywall is definitely one of those skills where practice makes perfect (or at least good enough that no one else notices!).
Drywall finishing is one of those things that's easy to underestimate until you're standing there covered in dust, wondering why you didn't just hire someone. Took me forever to realize thinner coats applied patiently beat thick, rushed layers every time. I second the lighting tip, too—nothing worse than feeling proud of your work only to spot a giant shadowy lump later. Sounds like you're on the right track, hang in there...it does get easier (sort of).
Been there... learned the hard way that patience beats shortcuts every time. My first drywall attempt was a mess—tried to rush it with thick coats, ended up sanding forever and still had bumps. Next room, I slowed down, thinner layers, better lighting setup. Not perfect, but way smoother (and less dust). Definitely worth the extra time and patience.
Totally agree with you on patience being key. My first drywall job was a disaster too—thought I could just slap on mud thick and sand it down later. Big mistake. Spent days choking on dust, and the joints still looked like amateur hour. One thing I'd add is investing in a decent taping knife. I started out with some cheap plastic one, thinking it wouldn't matter much, but upgrading to a quality metal blade made a huge difference in smoothing out the layers evenly. Also, mixing your mud properly helps a ton—too thick and it's impossible to spread thinly, too thin and it drips everywhere. Took me a while to find that sweet spot consistency, but once I did, everything got easier. Still not perfect at it (probably never will be), but at least now my walls don't scream "DIY newbie" from across the room...
