I just re-did the hoops on my Slingerland set, used Strip-X stripper to strip off the old paint using a toothbrush to loosen the gunk. Wiped off with paper towels, then gently went around the edges of the inlay channel with a flat blade screw driver to make sure I had clean edges. Then found a small tub of Duron fill & patch vinyl spackling in the garage that worked like a charm filling the dents & scratches from the pedals, etc. Let it dry, sanded lightly, then went over it with steel wool to make sure there were no little snags. Sprayed Krylon Gloss Black, let it dry, turned it over and sprayed again...let that dry, hit it with steel wool again the next day and then sprayed a second coat the same way. Let that dry and it's beautiful. I discovered that the steel wool after the first coat is the secret to getting a smooth finish. When you put on the second coat it is really nice and smooth. Kept a fan blowing on them for a day or 2 before gluing on new inlays & putting them back on the drums.

I'm in the process of doing my hoops using this stuff from StewMac:

http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Finishing_supplies/Fillers_and_putties/Wood_Filler_Putty.html

It fills and sandes nicely and takes to paint, (I'm using the StewMac nitro rattle can).

I use bondo.

...and I use "Plastic Wood"...so you see...it don't matter what you use, as long as you are cool with it and it is readily available and cheap for you.

Thanks everyone. I used a random filler from Ace last night and they are almost ready to paint. Thanks everone.