How to Sand Drywall Patches for a Seamless Paint Finish (180–320 Grit Guide)

Properly sanding drywall patches is the difference between an invisible repair and a glaring bump under fresh paint. Using the right grits in sequence smooths joint compound edges, feathers transitions, and eliminates imperfections so your wall looks flawless after painting.

Why Sand Drywall Patches?

Even skilled application of joint compound leaves minor ridges and texture. Sanding evens the surface, blends it with surrounding drywall, and ensures paint won’t highlight the patch area.

Best Grit Sequence for Drywall Repairs

• Grit 180: Leveling and shaping dried compound.
• Grit 220: Refining and feathering edges into surrounding wall.
• Grit 320: Final smoothing for a paint-ready surface.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Drywall Patches

1. Prepare the area. Protect floors and nearby surfaces with drop cloths. Wear a dust mask and eye protection.
2. Initial leveling. Use Grit 180 (25-pack) on a sanding block or pole sander to knock down ridges and high spots in the patch.
3. Feather the edges. Switch to Grit 220 (50-pack) to blend the joint compound into the wall surface. Keep strokes light and wide to avoid creating dips.
4. Final smooth pass. Finish with Grit 320 (100-pack) to remove fine scratches and prepare for primer.
5. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum the area and wipe with a slightly damp microfiber cloth to remove dust before painting.

Pro Tips

• Sand in a circular or feathering motion to avoid hard edges.
• Use a bright work light to spot imperfections before painting.
• For large patches, prime before the final sanding pass to reveal hidden flaws.

Common Mistakes

• Over-sanding—can expose drywall paper, requiring re-patching.
• Skipping grits—leaves deeper scratches that show through paint.
• Painting over dust—reduces adhesion and can cause paint defects.

FAQs

• Can I use a power sander? Yes, but keep it on low speed and use a fine grit to avoid gouging the surface.
• Should I wet sand drywall? Wet sanding reduces dust but is slower and best for small touch-ups.

Watch & Learn

For more grit options and sanding supplies, shop all sandpaper and find the perfect match for your project.