wrote in message
ups.com...
I'm currently installing drywall in a 20x18 (approx.) room, and I am
planning on finishing the seams with fiberglass mesh tape (except the
inside corners, which will use steel-reinforced paper; there are no
outside corners in the room). Fiberglass mesh tape requires
setting-type joint compound for the first coat. Fortunately, one such
compound (Sheetrock Easy Sand, in various setting timeframes) is
available at the local big-box hardware stores. Unfortunately, the
packaging only lists the mixing proportions for mixing the entire bag
at once! Needless to say, I don't need 18 pounds of compound to finish
this small of an area. However, scaling down the "recipe" poses a
problem because I do not have a weighing device that is accurate enough
to weigh the joint compound. What I need is the mixing proportions by
volume (in other words, the ratio of volume of powdered compound to
volume of water). What proportions are generally used by people who
have worked with this compound? I wasn't able to find any information
on this on Sheetrock's website.

Also, do you need to use a drill attachment to mix the compound, or can
you do this effectively with a wooden stick or dowel?

Thanks in advance.


I hope this rambling answer helps you.

Don't buy anything faster than 45. If you are a real beginner stick with
90.

Find a measuring cup or bowl and a water measuring container. You will only
need to use trial and error for the first batch.

Hand mix only batches that are 1/4 bag or smaller. Electric mixers or over
mixing speeds up the setting process. I find a shallow wide container easier
than a deep narrow one. I also have a large rubber kitchen spatula and a
slotted metal spoon for mixing.

The trick to doing this right is to add the water slowly and get all the
powder wet and lumpy. Let it sit for 1-3 minutes. Then come back and add
more water and mix to a smooth consistency. Note the total amount of water
and measures of powder used. Use this process every time you mix because
the amount of powder will vary based on the "fluff" basis of the powder.
Never add extra water after the second mixing. You will ruin the setting
properties.

I have not measured a partial batch for so long that I can't give you any
approximates. I am going to mix a very baby match on Tuesday and will post
those numbers for you but those will also be so small as to be of no help.

You want a thicker mix for bedding the tape than you want for topping.

Leaving you for now with this final thought. For the second mixing it
ALWAYS easier to add water than powder. Never add water or powder after the
second mixing.

Email works if you remove the obvious.

Colbyt