first timer rust repair
 

Hello, so I'm getting ready to paint my 66 VIP. Really want to get rid of these cancer spots though.
Are these too big to fill with mesh? Should I be looking into having somebody weld in a patch? I'm not looking to make it perfect but don't want to be re doing it next summer
I am a taper/ drywall finisher so I'm fairly confident with Bondo but it is my first time taking on more than just a small dent

Any input much appreciated!!

I would say, Better to have the "Tin Knocker" do it. Just my 2 cents. If not, your going to be back at it at some point in time.

Get someone to do it, one big bump and all your bondo will break away.

I get that this is not something recommended for DIY, but are there any resources online for learning about this type of work?

Even if I am not going to do it this time, I would like to know more about the process.

There are is a ton of info on you tube. An inexpensive MIG welder and some practice with patience and you could surprise yourself.

Professional body tech here. When you have a rust hole, there will be rust on the inside that you can't see. That rust must be cut away or you will be redoing it next year. It is not hard to make and weld in a patch panel. Like said above, you may surprise yourself. Use body filler for final shaping but get the metal solid first.