Walls and Ceilings - Patching Drywall: Texturing

I replaced drywall piece about 18"x30" and used the spray texturing in a can to get the "orange peel" look that was originally applied by the contractor. I sealed it before painting it. It came out "okay" but I'm not happy with it. I can tell that I patched the surface. I'm planning on sanding it down and starting over. Are there any tricks to using this product? I'm guessing that perhaps I didn't use enough because one small area almost matches but the other surface area appears too smooth and I can see where the tape is. I'm also thinking that I should spray beyond the patch to try to blend it out to the original. Suggestions?

After you spray it on, use a dry/damp sponge and tap over the entire surface. The trick is to wait for the texture to harden enough so it does not stick to the sponge, but can still be molded. You also need a sponge that looks like the texture. Pay attention to big or little dimples.

Orange peel is very common in apartments (where I use this technique).