thanks again to all your responses---

I see that DAP makes plaster products-- a plaster/sand patch mix, and
straight plaster of paris. so, I take it that these will be better
then joiint compound, right?

Has anyone tried "Fast Patch"? It is a tape that can be painted over,
with it's edges being thin and irregular that blend in with the wall
better. So they say.. That sounds just to good to be true..