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How to Install Drywall Tape and Mud

Brian Gregory

By Brian Gregory
Updated August 12, 2025

Learn to apply drywall mud and tape to ensure a smooth, even surface for painting. These easy-to-follow instructions from Lowe’s will help.

Skill

Intermediate

Time

One Weekend

A room with all the drywall joints covered in drywall mud.

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

How to Install Drywall Tape and Mud

A man in a white tee shirt and a hard hat applying drywall mud with a trowel.

Here are some general instructions for mudding drywall so you can plan. Your instructions may vary according to the types of products used. You may also find that you need other tools and materials not mentioned. Always defer to the manufacturer’s specifications on all products.

Step 1: Apply the First Layer of Drywall Mud

Butting together multiple sheets of drywall creates seams or “joints” because the edges of drywall sheets are beveled. If these joints aren’t covered properly, they’ll show through the paint.

Begin work to cover the joints by preparing the drywall joint compound, or “mud,” according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can choose from either a dry or wet mud, as well as some premixed options.

Apply a layer of mud to the drywall joints using the tool recommended by the manufacturer, such as a trowel, paint scraper or utility knife. Smooth a line of mud about an inch wide over the joints and over any fasteners that secure the drywall sheets to the wall studs. Use the scraping tool to remove any excess mud.

Allow the mud to dry. Then use a pole sander fitted with the type of sandpaper recommended by the manufacturer to smooth away any high points or imperfections.

Caution

Always take proper safety precautions when sanding, including wearing eye protection, work gloves and a respirator if needed.

Step 2: Apply the Drywall Tape

Install drywall tape over the mudded joints. Smooth the tape with your hand as you go to eliminate any air bubbles and to ensure the tape makes good contact with the mud. Once you’ve taped an entire joint, use a putty knife to press the tape firmly onto the mud. Repeat the process until all the joints have been covered with tape.

Step 3: Cover the Drywall Corners

Using the same procedure as for joints, apply mud to the inside corners of the drywall and wipe away any excess. Allow the mud to dry, then sand. Next, crease the drywall tape so it fits snugly into the corners and apply over the mud. Use the putty knife to ensure proper contact and smooth away air bubbles.

Step 4: Add a Second Layer of Mud Over the Drywall Tape

Apply another layer of drywall mud over the tape and smooth it out. In most cases, it is recommended to use a lightweight, all-purpose mud for this step as well as a wider trowel or drywall knife to help spread it evenly. Remove any excess mud. This layer should be allowed to dry overnight before continuing work.

Step 5: Add a Third Layer of Mud

Using a wide trowel or putty knife, apply a final coat of mud over the second coat. This will mask any imperfections in the previous coat. It is typically recommended to use a lightweight product referred to as a “topping mud” mixed to a thinner consistency for this step, although your project may vary. Allow the product to dry completely for the time recommended by the manufacturer.

Step 6: Complete the Project by Sanding

Sand the final coat of mud until completely smooth using a pole sander and 120-grit sandpaper, or whatever grit is recommended by the manufacturer. Use a clean cloth to wipe away any dust after sanding. Now you’re ready to paint.

Tip

Check out How to Paint a Wall, Trim and Ceilings for more do-it-yourself help and our Interior Paint Buying Guide for help choosing the right kind of paint of the room.

Pro Tips and Tricks for Installing Drywall Tape and Mud

  • Pre-fill any gaps. Fill deep seams or gaps with mud before applying tape to avoid air pockets.
  • Use the right tape. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to see what type of drywall tape is best for the drywall mud you’ve purchased.
  • Crease the tape. Fold the drywall tape evenly before applying it to the insides of corners for a proper fit.
  • Feather the edges. Smooth and blend the edges of each mud layer to minimize the amount of excess that needs to be sanded away.
  • Let mud dry fully. Allow each coat to dry completely before sanding or applying the next coat.
  • Wipe your putty knife or drywall tool occasionally. This helps ensure a smooth application without drag, scratches or uneven texture.