To use drywall tape on corners, particularly inside corners, the basic process involves applying a layer of joint compound (mud), embedding the corner tape into the mud, and then wiping away the excess mud, ensuring the edges are feathered smoothly. This creates a strong, seamless joint that is ready for subsequent coats of mud.
Taping Inside Corners: A Step-by-Step Guide
Taping inside corners requires precision to achieve a clean finish. Here's a breakdown of the typical process:
1. Prepare the Corner and Mud
- Ensure the corner is clean and free of dust or debris.
- Mix your joint compound to a smooth, workable consistency.
2. Apply Joint Compound
- Using a drywall knife, apply a layer of joint compound to both sides of the inside corner where the two drywall pieces meet.
- The mud should be thick enough to embed the tape fully but not excessively heavy.
3. Fold and Position the Tape
- Drywall tape (usually paper tape for corners) should be folded lengthwise down the center.
- Gently press the folded tape into the wet joint compound along the corner. Start from one end and work your way down.
4. Embed the Tape
- Using a corner tool or a drywall knife, firmly press the tape into the mud.
- Start from the center of the corner and work outwards. This ensures the tape is fully embedded and helps push out excess mud and air bubbles.
5. Wipe Excess Mud
- This is a critical step. As noted in the reference, "I always wipe the bottom first please keep your edges. Feathered. That's the bare bones are taping an inside corner."
- Using your drywall knife or corner tool, wipe away the excess mud from both sides of the tape. Hold the knife at a slight angle to the wall.
- Wipe the bottom first if you are working from top to bottom (or vice versa depending on your starting point) to manage the mud flow.
- Remove just enough mud to leave the tape embedded and barely visible beneath a thin layer of mud.
6. Feather the Edges
- Ensure the edges of the mud layer are "Feathered". This means smoothing the edges of the mud out onto the adjoining drywall surface so there is a gradual transition. This prevents a noticeable ridge and makes subsequent coats and sanding much easier.
Summary Table: Inside Corner Taping Basics
| Step | Action | Key Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare | Clean corner, mix mud | Ready for application |
| Apply Mud | Coat both sides of the corner | Base for tape |
| Position Tape | Fold tape, press into mud | Tape adheres to corner |
| Embed Tape | Press tape firmly, remove bubbles | Tape fully seated in mud |
| Wipe Excess Mud | Remove surplus mud, wipe bottom first | Tape embedded, thin mud coat remains |
| Feather Edges | Smooth mud edges onto wall surface, edges feathered | Gradual transition, no harsh lines |
Following these steps, including the essential technique of wiping and feathering as highlighted in the reference, forms the fundamental process for successfully taping inside drywall corners. Subsequent coats of mud will be needed to build up the corner and achieve a smooth, finished look.
