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I finally switched from a 6-inch to a 12-inch taping knife for the first coat
For years, I stuck with a 6-inch knife for my first coat, thinking it gave me more control. Last week on a big ceiling job in a new build, I tried a 12-inch knife just to see. The difference was huge (I finished the first coat almost 30% faster). The wider blade holds more mud and feathers the edges way smoother with fewer strokes. It felt awkward for about ten minutes, but now I don't think I'll go back. Anyone else make a simple tool switch that saved a bunch of time?
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nguyen.blake2mo ago
That thing about the mud drying faster on a wider blade is real. I used to think a smaller knife meant less waste, but you're right, a wetter mix is key. It feels wrong at first, like you're making it sloppy, but it just flows off the 12-inch so much better. Totally changed how I work.
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caseythompson1mo ago
Man, that awkward phase is so real. I remember switching from a 6 to a 10 inch and feeling like I forgot how to mud for a whole morning. It's exactly like @felix414 said, your whole rhythm is off until your wrist learns the new angle. But once it clicks, you're just covering so much more ground per pull, especially on those big flat new-build walls. The speed gain is insane.
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nguyen.angela2mo ago
Ever think about how a bigger knife might change the way you mix your mud? I had to adjust my mix to be a bit wetter when I went wider, because the extra surface area dries the mud faster on the blade. If it's too stiff, it drags and you lose that smooth feather. Getting the consistency right felt like learning the tool all over again.
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