Hey Gordon.
Doug's description is the right way to do it for sure.
However, depending on the level of damage and the required effect, there are also slightly simpler methods such as paint pens.
If the wood damage can be easily filled with a spot putty or some light bondo, go ahead and do that. You'll have to gauge the necessary material based on the size and location of the damage. This is where pics would have helped a lot.
For example; If the damage is on the hard corner edge you'll want to make sure the material gets good bite so rough up the wood a bit more with a file and definitely use bondo or some epoxy based wood filler, then sand with a block for a nice sharp edge. Anything else will just flake off later.
As for masking and painting, I have found that spray lacquers have a nasty habit of getting under painters tape no matter how well you think you've masked and potentially ruining any side art. I would use a small disposable roller to prime and even paint the final edge. Rustoleum is available in a can and works pretty good. Semi gloss is ideal. Don't overload the roller to avoid runs.
I've also had great results using the paint pens sold by pinrestore.com. I make sure to use the thickest pen and do the entire front edge of the head whether it needs it or not. This will give you a more consistent look.
Hopefully you can shrink your files and show us some progress.
Good luck
Adriano
