Patch a Small Nail or Screw Hole

Spackle handles anything pinky-finger-sized or smaller. Five minutes total work, plus dry time.

Difficulty: Easy Time: 5 min (plus 1hr dry) Cost: $5

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1

Clean the hole

Wipe dust away. Press the edges flat if the paper around the hole is puckered.
2

Apply spackle

Push spackle into the hole with a fingertip or putty knife, then drag the knife flat across to scrape off excess.
3

Wait, sand, repeat

Let it dry per the can (15–30 min for most lightweight spackles). Sand smooth. If you see a slight dip, add a second thin coat.
4

Touch up paint

Dab with a small brush or mini-roller. Feather the edges so the new paint blends.