When preparing the surface, you must allow for the thickness of the paint being applied. The filled area must be completely smooth or even slightly lower to allow for the thickness of the paint being applied. (See arrow)
If you wipe off excess paint and filler where you don’t need them, you won’t have to sand it off when dry.
When dry, sand with 200 grit or higher paper and feel with your finger if the edge is smooth. Then apply paint to the area.
