Something Appropriate

paper vs. mesh

I always find, though slightly more time consuming initially, the overall quality of your wall joint will be higher with the traditional paper tape as opposed to the sticky, mesh tape. The paper requires applying fresh joint compound before applying, where as the mesh tape is sticky and therefore can be applied without prior preporation. Though not having to apply the preperatory coat can be inticing, the time it takes can easily be made up during subsiquent coats. When the dreadful process of sanding the dried compound comes around, it proves much easier to sand down to a point that reveals the mesh, where as the flat, solid tape wouldn't be as apparent in the same position. Especially when you're dealing with inside corners and drywall joints that will be especially visible, using the flat tape will save you time in the long haul by not having to add a fourth or even fifth coat to cover up oversanding. Offhand, i can only think of a handfull of times when the mesh tape would be prefered. For tight patching or places that are hard to reach with your knife, for example, might benifit for having to actually work on the spot as little as possible.

EXTRA TIP — Keep a light spray bottle with you when using paper tape to wet the tape. This will avoid bubbles later on in the process if you can't get the tape wet enough with the mud itself.