fill, seal, or both?

[bigone5500]

I use elmer's wood filler and add some water to thin it. Spread it on the fins and let dry. If you get too much water it can warp the fins. After it's dry sand it smooth and prime and paint. The primer coat will reveal any imperfections after the filler so you can go back and add a dab where needed.

Good luck.

 

[jaybo]

i'm new to rockets, but what i've been doing that works very well is using alot of techniques i learned from auto body shops-

-sand fins to desired shape, finishing up with a fine grit (800+) and seal with Sanding Sealer.
-use Bondo Glazing and Spot Putty to fill in the grain. sand off excess first with 500 or so and then with 1000+.
-prime. sand with fine grit to smooth... shouldn't take much.
-spray base color. enough for even coverage.
-wet sand smooth with 1500
-spray clear coat
-wet sand with 1500
-rubbing compound to get out haze from sanding
-buff to shine. wax if desired.