Steaming Small Finish Indentations

[nervous]

Does anyone have any experience that they would be willing to share with me regarding steaming out a small (approx 1/8" round by 1/16" deep) finish ding that I accidentally (acci-DENT-ly) inflicted on my Modulus Q5 body front this week when a Bartolini pickup got away from me. I am not sure if the finish is intact but it appears to be. Will spot steaming work on a finished surface? What is the chance of damaging the finish more than it is now from the setam or heat? What about a CA glue fill? It's small and not a big deal and I can certainly live with it but I am irritated because the top had no dings on it before I did this. If I can fix this with minimal risk involved I would gladly try.

[Turnaround]

Originally Posted by nervous

Will spot steaming work on a finished surface?

No. Steaming works by causing the wood fibres to swell. Can't get the steam to the wood if there's finish in the way.

Originally Posted by nervous

What is the chance of damaging the finish more than it is now from the setam or heat?

Almost certainly will damage the finish and make things worse.

Originally Posted by nervous

What about a CA glue fill?

Best option. But if you are not practiced in this method, there is significant risk. Check Frets.com or Dan Erlewine's book for the technique and practice on something other than your bass.