Taping the joints, or seams, between drywall panels is part art and part know-how. With the right preparation and tips, you can cover seams with joint tape seamlessly—so your painted walls look like one piece instead of pieces of patchwork.
As you apply joint tape, you embed it into the drywall seams using joint compound (mud), a few tools and a little finesse. While the tape smoothes over the seams, it also strengthens the drywall panel construction.
Paper tape is the preference of most professionals. It is cheaper, stronger, smoother and more versatile than mesh tape. While self-adhesive mesh tape is easier...