How to Patch a Hole in Drywall with a Blowout Patch: A Simple Repair Method

Learn how to patch a hole in drywall using a blowout patch (aka California drywall patch). This easy, cost-effective method delivers smoother results than store-bought patch kits!

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DRZ

2/2/20252 min read

how to measure a blowout drywall patch
how to measure a blowout drywall patch

Patching a hole in Drywall with a "Blowout Patch"

A "Blowout Patch" or "California Drywall Patch" is an extremely simple method of repairing holes in drywall without having to buy one of the expensive, cheesy drywall patch kits. And those mesh/metal drywall patch usually come out looking very amateurish. If done right this method will typically come out much smoother looking.

What you will need:

  • Drywall joint compound - (premixed or bagged 20 thru 90 opinions will work)

  • Drywall mud knife

  • Drywall "Keyhole" saw

  • Mud pan

  • Utility knife

  • Measuring tape

  • Pencil

  • A scrap piece of drywall about 4"-6" larger than your holes width and height (to cut your patch from)

Step One: Measure the hole to be patched

Measure the dimensions of the hole to be patched. If the hole is round it is sometimes easier to square it up using a drywall keyhole saw.

Step Two: Transfer dimensions onto scrap drywall and cut patch.

On the under/ back side of the scrap drywall piece, Mark out the dimensions of the hole to be patched.

blowout patch drywall
blowout patch drywall

Step four: Apply compound/mud.

Apply compound/ mud around the hole to be patch. Then press the "blowout" patch into the mud. Using your drywall knife work the front side of your drywall patch's paper into the compound and smooth as you would normal joint tape. Once the paper is worked into the mud and smooth, You then apply a smooth coat over the entire patch.

Step five: Sand Patch and re-coat.

Finally... Once the compound has dried, sand raised edges and recoat until smooth.

Step Three: Score/ Cut and Peel

Once your patch is laid out, score/cut only the paper on the back side of your drywall piece. Then snap the drywall along the score lines and slowly peel/ remove the wallboard material leaving the front face paper attached to the patch. This acts as the drywall tape for the patch. (See picture) Note: the paper on the front side of your patch should overhang the hole by at least an inch and a half to two inches. (See picture)