Women Who Build

Drywall Shorty Builds a Global Following

Lydia Crowder turned two decades of drywall finishing experience into a social media platform that educates millions and promotes Level 5 finishing excellence.

By John Wyatt, Editor, Tanja Kern, Strategic Content Editor

Women Who Build — Image composition: James Hohner

Lydia Crowder
Social Media Influencer and Educator, Drywall Shorty

With more than 22 years in drywall finishing, starting at 18 with her father’s company and later owning a business, Lydia Crowder, known as “Drywall Shorty,” has built a massive online presence. Sharing tips on social media for eight years, she amassed more than two million followers, reaching half a billion people last year.

Her achievements include contributing to the BUILD event, teaching weekly tips, appearing at trade shows, presenting in Brazil at ENICS 2024, encouraging women in trades, troubleshooting for finishers, and promoting Level 5 finishing education.

She predicts Level 5 will dominate discussions amid demands for perfection in large homes, plus mentoring needs as younger generations enter. Cultural shifts include greater acceptance of female finishers and appreciation for the craft’s mastery via social media.

More jobs exist for women now, with opportunities to showcase talent. Lydia loves the artistry, regional variations, and growing community. She wants experienced finishers to share knowledge rather than guard secrets. Her advice: “Be a sponge, learn from others, and ask questions.”

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John Wyatt is editor of Walls & Ceilings magazine, bringing more than two decades of experience with BNP Media. He joined the company in 2000 as an associate editor, contributing to both Walls & Ceilings and Roofing Contractor before assuming the role of editor in 2008. In addition to his work with the brand, Wyatt collaborates across BNP’s architecture, engineering and construction (A/E/C) portfolio, supporting related publications and initiatives. He can be reached at 248-205-6659 or wyattj@bnpmedia.com.

Tanja Kern covers economic trends and the intersection of architecture, design, and construction for Walls & Ceilings, with an emphasis on the forces reshaping the industry. She develops and amplifies content that connects construction professionals with the intelligence they need to compete and grow.

With more than 20 years of experience, Tanja has written for national business, consumer and trade publications. She holds a Master of Science in magazine publishing from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism. She can be reached at kernt@bnpmedia.com.