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Welcome to the club, DIYDave! Finishing seams is definitely an art, but you can get there with practice. Here are my top tips:

Tape: For most interior seams, I highly recommend **paper tape**. It adheres better and is less prone to bubbling than mesh tape, which I usually reserve for corners or repairs where mesh is more forgiving. Apply it over a thin layer of all-purpose joint compound (mud).

Mud Application: Use a good quality **all-purpose joint compound** for the first coat (embedding the tape) and subsequent coats. For the initial coat, you want just enough mud to embed the tape and cover it. Use a 6-inch drywall knife to spread it evenly, wiping away excess. Aim for a feather-edge, meaning the mud gets thinner as it extends beyond the tape.

Sanding: This is where patience is key. Let each coat of mud dry completely. For the first coat, a light sanding is usually enough. For subsequent coats (I recommend at least two more), use a finer grit sandpaper (like 120-150 grit) and a sanding pole or sponge. Wear a mask! Sand gently in a circular motion. The goal is to knock down any ridges or high spots, not to create a divot.

Achieving Flatness: This comes down to multiple thin coats. Don't try to make it perfect with one application. Each coat should be progressively wider and thinner than the last. Use a drywall mud pan and a wider knife (10-12 inch) for the final coats to help feather the edges out further. Hold a light source at an angle to the wall to reveal imperfections.

Don't get discouraged if your first few seams aren't perfect. It takes a few projects to really get the feel for it!

Great advice from Pete! I'd also add that for beginners, using **pre-mixed joint compound** can be easier than mixing your own. It's a bit more expensive but you don't have to worry about getting the consistency right.

Also, if you're doing inside corners, consider using **drywall corner bead** or **flexible tape** (like:

USG Sheetrock Paper-faced Drywall Tape

or

CertainTeed ProForm Paper Joint Tape

for flat seams, and something like

CertainTeed ProForm Easysand 90

as a good all-around mud. Good luck!

Wow, thanks so much for the detailed responses, ProBuilderPete and SarahHomeowner! This is incredibly helpful.

I think I'll definitely go with paper tape for my flat seams. And the tip about multiple thin coats and feathering the edges is crucial – I was probably trying to do too much at once in my head.

I'll also look into the pre-mixed mud Sarah suggested. My biggest fear is over-sanding or making it worse, so I'll be super gentle and use a light to check my work.

Appreciate you all taking the time to share your expertise!