Finishing Outside Corners

Apply drywall over one side of the corner then the other, using adhesive and screws.

Measure the length of the corner, and cut the bead to length with a pair of tin strips. The metal is thin and easy to cut. Cut from one edge toward the bead in the center and then cut from the other edge toward the center.

Nail the bead to the wall. Drywall bead is nailed to the wall instead of screwed because the screws tend to bend the metal. Drive a 1½-inch drywall nail every 9 inches into the holes along the edge of the bead.

Dip the knife in drywall compound and pick up about an inch of compound. Rest one edge of the knife against the wall and the other against the bead. Pull the knife along the bed to apply the compound. Repeat on the other side of the corner.

Let the first coast dry overnight and apply the second coat exactly the same way as the first, using a 10-inch knife.