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Are the drill holes, stains, and scratches on your home’s walls aggravating you? We have some tips to help draw attention away from those unattractive messes and onto something more pleasant.
Selleys Wall Putty is priced at $2.69 on Shopee TheMiniMart.
1. Fill in with Wall Putty
One of the simplest ways to cover drill holes is by using wall putty or filler, which is readily available in most hardware shops across Singapore. First, clean the hole to remove any dust or debris, then apply the filler with a putty knife, ensuring it’s pressed firmly into the gap. Allow it to dry completely—especially important in humid climates—before sanding it smooth. Once the surface is even, paint over it with a matching wall colour to blend it in with the rest of the wall.
Consider getting a tub of wall putty, or tube of 3M Small Hole Repair putty kit ($16.88).
Get Selleys Wall Putty at $2.69 from Shopee.
Nippon Paint DIY Wall Touch-Up Paint with Roller Brush (White paint)
2. Paint Over the Wall Hole or Stain
In Singapore’s climate, walls are prone to mildew and moisture stains, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. After cleaning the stained area with a mould remover or a mixture of vinegar and water, allow the wall to dry thoroughly. Then, use a stain-blocking primer before applying your top coat of paint. These primers are designed to prevent the stain from bleeding through, ensuring a fresh and clean finish. Choose a high-quality, mould-resistant paint for added protection in the future.
For a simpler wall paint touch up, just buy a tube of wall-paint roller brush - though most of them are white paint roller brushes for white walls.
Get the Nippon Paint DIY Wall Touch-Up Paint Roller Brush (White) for $9.80 on Shopee (BOJO) or $10.78 Shopee (PlusTwo).
3. Cover Up with Framed Wall Art or Photographs
If you’re looking for a quick aesthetic fix without doing much repair work, decorative solutions such as wall art, fabric panels, or even macramé hangings can be very effective. These not only hide unsightly holes or stains but also add character to your space. In Singapore, where interior design often blends function and beauty, this method allows for a stylish workaround while avoiding major renovations.
Find small framed wall art from $9.20 to $24.10 on Shopee (baoyujiaju.sg).
4. Cover Up with Peel and Stick Wallpapers
Peel-and-stick (or self-adhesive) wallpaper or large wall decals can be a smart and reversible option for covering imperfections. These are particularly popular in rental flats and HDB units, as they don’t require permanent changes to the wall. Many brands now offer waterproof and mildew-resistant options suitable for Singapore’s humid conditions. Choose patterns that are textured or busy enough to mask uneven surfaces subtly.
There’s an array of self-adhesive wallpapers, tiles, and fluted panels on marketplaces such as Shopee and Lazada.
Find wood-like fluted panel self-adhesive wallpaper from $32.90 for a roll of 60cm x 280cm on Shopee (ForeverGreen).
5. Cover Up with a Floating Wall Shelves
Another effective way to mask imperfections is by creating a gallery wall using a mix of framed prints, mirrors, or photos. Strategically place the artwork to cover damaged areas. Alternatively, install floating shelves—using the existing drill holes if possible—and style them with books, plants, or decorative objects. Not only does this cover the wall damage, but it also makes the space more dynamic and personalised.
Find wall-mounted shelves from $12 to $47 on Shopee (Hesheng Livefurniture/ Industrial).