In article , Nil wrote:
I have a variety of wallboard wounds to repair. There are some cracks,
dings, screwholes, and a hole that's about 1.5" x 5". I find on the
hardware store shelf "Vinyl Spackling", "Lightweight Vinyl Spackling",
and "Patching Plaster". I already have a big tub of joint compound.

What's the difference between Spackle and Patching Plaster? The labels
are almost identical. Why would I choose one over another? Can I use
joint compound for these repairs?

Patching plaster shrinks less than spackle, and dries faster and harder.

For a hole 1.5 x 5 inches, I'd use patching plaster, but not filled quite all
the way flush with the surface. Then after the plaster cures, lay on a thin
coat of spackle.

Before applying the patching plaster, moisten the drywall with a sponge.
Plaster cures by chemical reaction between the powder and the water. If you
don't dampen the area around the patch, it will wick enough water out of the
plaster to prevent it from curing around the edges, and the patch will not
adhere well to the wall.