I would like to know if someone can tell me how to repair small imperfections in drywall. I am talking about small dents, or places where tape was removed and pulled off some of the paper from the drywall. I now use spackling or drywall mud over the problem, when I sand it off to paint, the surface texture is always much smother than the rest of the wall. When light hits the surface it stands out. I tried to use a wet sponge before the repair sets up but still have a problem. Thanks for the help.

This is really kind of an art. First, it depends on the type of texture you are trying to match. Different patterns have different techniques.

Here are a couple tips though. First, rather than patch the area flush with the rest of the wall, leave the patch a little lower. Your texture has a high - low pattern to it probably, let some or all of the patch be part of the low. You can always add more.

One way to add a splatter is to buy a texture gun. They sell disposal ones for about $10-15. Alternatively, find a large diameter straw, stick it in the mud, take it out and blow the mud at the wall, hard. This will create a random splatter effect.

Some textures are two stage projects. After the mud has dried a bit, use a mud knife or putty knife to knock down the peaks. Drag it gently over the tops or highest parts to flatten them.

Don't be afraid to go beyond the edges of your patch, to help blend the patch. However, be careful not to overdo it or the surrounding area will get filled in by the spackle/mud.

I hope that helps.

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