How to Mix Small Amounts of Sheetrock Joint Compound

Sheetrock joint compound is most often used to cover the joints between sheetrock panels during wall construction, but it also works well for patching nail holes, cracks and larger holes in existing walls. Joint compound comes in several forms, including powdered compounds and those with a paste-like consistency. Regardless of the form, it still needs to be mixed with water before use. All-purpose and topping mud varieties set more slowly and give you more time to work while quick-setting varieties dry fast, so it's best to mix these only in small batches.

Things You'll Need

• Disposable plastic container
• Metal trowel or drill with mixing attachment

Instructions

1. Place a small amount of compound in a disposable plastic container. Approximately 1 cup of compound provides a sufficient amount to start with as you can always mix up more.

2. Add water to the compound, 1 tablespoon at a time. Mix the water and compound together with a metal trowel or an electric drill equipped with a mixing attachment. Mix the compound and water until it's smooth and free of lumps.

3. Continue adding water until the compound reaches the desired consistency. Generally, the compound should develop a thick batter-like consistency once enough water is added. The amount of water needed will vary, depending on the type and brand of compound used.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't use all of the compound at once, pour an inch of water on top of the compound but don't mix it in. Cover the container and store it for one to two days. Pour off the water before using the compound.