Apply Tape to Joints

• 1). Choose your weapon. Taping a joint can be done with two different types of tape: paper tape or self-adhering mesh tape.
  
  
• 2
  
  
  Apply adhesive mesh tape directly to the Sheetrock, centering the strip of tape over the joint and pressing it firmly to the surface.
  
  
• 3
  
  
  Apply paper tape a bit differently: Load your 4- or 6-inch taping knife with drywall compound (mud) and apply it in an even thin coat along the joint; then take a length of the paper tape and press it into the mud with your knife.
  
  
• 4). Make sure that the tape (whichever you use) is smooth and that there are no air bubbles under it.
  
  
• 5
  
  
  Apply another thin coat over the top of the tape. You should still be able to see the tape through the drywall compound.
  
  
• 6). Allow this to dry completely before applying additional coats of drywall compound. (You won't need to apply additional tape.)