Soffits

I have finally learned that the things I call boxes in my kitchen are actually called soffits. They are rough wood because they were once covered with two layers of wallpaper.

Now that the paper's off we've been doing a little experimenting with how best to cover them up.

I was all for the spackle (since I seem to be obsessed with it) but it really didn't seem like a good idea. I have no idea how well that stuff actually holds up and have no desire to re-do this project once it's completed. There are a lot of edges that need to be smoothed in some way.

So we bought some joint compound and sheet rock tape and taped one corner and secured it with the compound. Our concern is that the tape will eventually loosen and we're back to square one.

Then we bought some corner bead. Meh, I guess it's okay but it seems like a lot of work for an area of the house that's not going to touched by anything.

Then we did some corners and edges with just the compound and when it was dry gave it a little sanding. I actually like this one the best but my husband doesn't think it's going to hold up.

No, I will not put wallpaper back up.

Any ideas or suggestions? Other than blowing up the kitchen and doing a $25,000 remodel.

I'm lucky I can stimulate the economy buying paint, spackle and joint compound.