patching raised panel gouge

[frank shic]

hi guys, any suggestions on how to patch up small router gouges in a raised panel? i was thinking about using either speckling compound or wood filler before running the panel through the raised panel bit again. most of my previous raised panels turned out pretty well until i got to these long pantry door raised panels.

[Jerry Miner]

If it's to be painted, then use a wood filler or Bondo. (Spackle is too soft, IMO)

If it's to be stained or finished clear, I would patch in a piece of matching wood

[Mark Wooden]

Like Jerry said, high performance filler or bondo sanded smooth if you're going to paint. I like Microlite body filler for MDF, sands easy.
If it's solid wood and gouged badly, rip the hip raise off the door where it joins the field, glue and clamp a new piece on and re- shape the raise