So I'm drywalling for this first time in my life. I have to say, it wasn't the nightmare most people have warned me about. I'd like to think I'm not half bad for a first timer. I've equiped myself with some descent 4", 6", 8" and 12" knives from the big box stores. One thing I've been struggling with is the last coat on the taped seams. The knives are flexible so no matter how little pressure I put on it, the knife still bows enough to squeeze out the fresh joint compound in the seam. Why do drywall knives have to be flexible? It would seem that if they were rigid, it would be easier to produce a flat surface. After fighting with the seams for a while I was able to get it "close enough" but not perfect...what gives?!?!? Your advice is as always, much appreciated. :)

I took a full wall between the dining room and kitchen down to 41" for a bar. Cut the studs, put on top plate, toed in the studs to bottom plate with screws, bottom plate to floor joist with carriage bolts and screws, put drywall (5/8) on one side and wall STILL has some movement to it... There will be granite going on top for bar so I am concerned about the wall moving. How much "play" is acceptable? There are cabinets, granite, sink, and dishwasher going on other side of wall but floor is tile, so I am not sure if that will help or if cabinets would "slide" on tile and not help... any ideas or will the cabinets fix things and I am overly concerned for nothing.... Thanks!