Score diagonals

Step 5:

Next, make diagonal cuts from the corners toward the center, forming a big "X."  

Break out interior

Step 6:

Using a hammer, or your hand, break out the box you just cut.  Pull out the pieces you removed without tearing up the paper.

Clean up edges and corners

Step 7:

Use a razor knife to clean up the cuts and remove the paper. 

Clear debris

Step 8:

Get rid of all of the dust with a small brush.

Cut repair patch piece

Step 9:

Measure the hole you cut and cut a piece of drywall to match.  It is advisable to use a piece of the same thickness.  Sometimes it is necessary to bevel the back edges of the patch to make sure that it settles to the appropriate level. 

Use drywall screws to attach

Step 10:

Screw the piece of drywall to the studs. 

Drive until flush and set

Step 11:

Drive the screws until they are just below the surface of the drywall.

Apply joint compound

Step 12:

Apply joint compound to the joints, forcing it into the seams. 

Use tape over seams

Step 13:

Tear off an appropriate length of tape and cover the seams.  Try not to overlap the tape at the corners.

Feather with wide knife

Step 14:

Using a 6" knife (bigger is ok) to work the tape and pull the mud from underneath the tape.   

Second and third coating

Step 15:

Clean up any marks in the mud and let dry overnight. Lightly sand the seams and clean up.  Apply second coat of compound. and repeat.  

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