problem setting default value in ms sql 2k

This is driving me nuts. I have a column in my table that I want to contain blank space, not null. Failing that, I would settle for a small mark, like a '.' or ':'. I have been trying to set this as the default value in for the column, with the data type being char. When I input ' ' or '.' I get an error about not being able to insert a null column (since I don't allow nulls in that column). If I put a string into the column, I don't get an error, but the column is just empty. I obviously don't get something about this, any help would be appreciated. Thanks

Can you set a default value?
column char(10) null DEFAULT ' '

Where would I enter that? I've been trying to put in the default value using the design view in enterprise manager

That statement will go in your table create statement. If the table is created you will need to issue an ALTER statement. There should be a column called default in the design view. I currently use MS SQL 7.0.