Cutting out a drywall section

[Mark Efird]

In the process of cutting out a section (3'x 4') of drywall in a closet and was wondering if you fill in the drywall screw holes and let them dry before you put on the fiberglass mess tape or do you fill in the holes, mud and tape at the same time and is a 8" knife wide enough. Since its in a closet it doesnt have to be look like a work of art.This is unchartered waters here.

Mark Efird (charlotte, n.c)

[Tom B]

I always apply the tape dry, then mud it all at once. An 8" knife is sufficient if you just want to seal the seams. For a professional (not visible) seam, I always come back with a 12", but thats your call.