I use the MC method as well. How you patch the pile of sugar is really up to you. Just make sure they can get to it. Sometimes the bees are all over the sugar pile when I open the hive, and sometimes I place the newspaper or paper towel on top and pour on some sugar. I usually do not need to use a smoker in the winter, because its usually to cold for them to fly.
If you're worried about crushing bees when you pour the sugar on....don't. Sometimes I kill a couple bees, but if you don't dump it on all at once, they usually just move out the way when you start pouring the sugar.
If you're worried about crushing bees when you pour the sugar on....don't. Sometimes I kill a couple bees, but if you don't dump it on all at once, they usually just move out the way when you start pouring the sugar.