A do-it-yourselfer sometimes finds it necessary to make a hole in wallboard to install a recessed toilet-paper holder, for instance. These are voluntary holes. A frustrated do-it-yourselfer or a youngster who flings open a door may create involuntary holes. To hide the latter type of hole, people often resort to strategic placement of paintings, wall hangings or furniture. This frequently results in an unwanted look that ultimately will force one to patch the hole.

A drywall contractor who performs work for our remodeling company taught us a very simple method of making a wallboard patch, one we'll share with you.

First, you'll need a piece of wallboard that is slightly larger than the hole to be patched. Many hardware stores or home improvement centers will sell partial sheets of 1/2" wallboard which is ideal. Cut a square patch which is slightly larger than the hole. Place the patch over the hole and draw a pencil line on the wall around the entire perimeter of the patch.

Next, using a wallboard saw, cut along the line on the wall and remove the damaged wallboard surrounding the hole. Then, cut one piece of wallboard joint tape approximately seven inches longer than the length of the patch and one seven inches longer than the width of the patch. Note: For patches that are larger than six inches in any one direction, more than one piece of wallboard joint tape may be required.

Using a six-to-ten-inch drywall knife, apply a thin coat of wallboard joint tape compound to the back of the patch and to the face of the wall surrounding the hole. Affix the previously cut joint tape to the back of the patch, one running horizontally the other vertically.

Carefully place the patch into the hole while folding the protruding joint tape back against the wall and into the bed of joint compound. Use the dry-wall knife to flatten the joint tape. Apply a thin coat of joint compound to the entire area, including the patch, and cover all of the joints with joint tape. Once applied, all of the joint tape should be smoothed with a putty knife.

After the area has been allowed to dry overnight or longer, depending upon the temperature and humidity in the air, an additional coat of joint compound should be applied. A third coat may be required to obtain a flawless patch. An additional two inches of area should be covered with each coat of joint compound to ensure a smooth transition.

The area should be sanded with 100-grit paper and a sanding block after the final coat of joint compound has been applied. Safety goggles and a breathing mask are a must.

We have found that the simplest way to match most modern wall textures is with a disposable touch-up gun. This device sprays drywall compound onto the wall. The compound can be troweled down to match the finish. The touch-up gun comes with an adjustable nozzle.

Other texturing methods include using a small piece of shag carpeting, a sponge, and other assorted utensils. In order to achieve the desired finish, we suggest that you practice applying texture to a scrap piece of drywall before making the actual application.