Easy Drywall Patch for Small Holes (Under $5!)

So, you’ve got a hole in your wall.
Maybe it’s from a doorknob.
Maybe it’s from “rearranging furniture aggressively.”
Or maybe you accidentally tried to hang a 50-pound mirror using a command hook (RIP).

Whatever the cause, don’t worry—you don’t need to call in a contractor or take out a second mortgage.
Here’s how to patch small drywall holes for under $5, using cheap stuff you can grab from any hardware store (or your “I might need this one day” drawer).

Table of Contents

🧰 What You’ll Need (The Cheap List):

Spackling paste or lightweight wall filler — $2–$3
Putty knife — $1 at most stores
Sandpaper (fine grit) — Usually $1 for a sheet or two
(Optional: Paint for touch-up — borrow some from the last time you painted and immediately forgot the color name)

🚧 Step-by-Step: Patching Like a Procrastinating Champ

1. Clean the Area

Wipe off any dust, loose drywall bits, or mystery gunk around the hole.
This is not the time to “paint over the problem.” That’s how you get weird wall acne.

2. Apply the Spackle

Scoop up a bit of spackling paste with your putty knife.
Smooth it over the hole like you’re frosting a very boring cupcake.
Press firmly to fill it in, then scrape off the excess so it’s flat with the wall.

Pro tip: If the hole is really tiny (like nail or screw-sized), you can use your finger. No judgment.

3. Let It Dry (aka Snack Break Time)

Check the label—most lightweight spackles dry in 15–30 minutes.
Use this time wisely: eat snacks, pretend to do chores, or stare at your wall and reflect on your life choices.

4. Sand It Smooth

Once dry, lightly sand the patched spot until it’s smooth and level with the rest of the wall.

If your patch feels like a speed bump, keep sanding. If it looks like a crater, you probably need to apply a second coat.

5. Touch-Up Paint (Optional but Fancy)

If you’re feeling extra responsible, slap on a little touch-up paint.
If you’re feeling lazy, just hope no one notices. Or call it “wall texture.”

✅ Done! You’re Basically a Drywall Surgeon Now

Total cost? Around $5 or less.
Time spent? Like 10 minutes of actual work (plus drying).
Satisfaction level? Through the roof.

And the next time someone says, “You should probably call someone for that,” you can proudly say,
“Nah, I fixed it myself—for the price of a coffee.”