> SO I was hoping, actually I knew that if I posted a question on varnishing
> that several of you would come out of the woodwork so to speak with some
> great advice.

> So here goes. I'm just finishing my Pygmy Queen Charlotte and am about
> ready to varnish. My questions are:

> 1. Why do you need to wait a month for the epoxy to dry?

Pygmy says to PADDLE your kayak for a month before varnishing. This is to allow time for the epoxy to cure and to wash off the amine blush. I went on vacation and left my newly epoxied kayak in the basement for a month. I then varnished it and the varnish did not dry, it was still very sticky after almost a week. I cleaned it off and thoroughly washed it. When I varnished again it went on wonderfully.

> 2. What type of varnish would you recommend(they recommend Z-Spar > Flagship)?

I used Interlux the first time and Z-Spar Captain's the second. I recomend Z-spar Flagship or Captain's. Flagship has more UV protection.

> 3. Brush recommendations.

I like a good china bristle brush, I use Purdy brushes, but be sure to clean it thoroughly after each use. Do not leave china bristle brushes to soak in thinner, it is about the same as throwing them away, but with more frustration.

> 4. How many coats do I need and how much varnish would
> this be, a pt. or qt.?

Buy a quart and put at least 2 coats on, more gives better UV protection.

5. Now that its getting cooler and damper here in
> Olympia Wa. are there any things that I should be aware of or take
> precautions to avoid. In other words will this weather change affect the
> process. (My garage is not heated)

I would recommend a space heater for around the time that you are varnishing. I think varnish goes on best on a typical summer day in Washington. (I live in Tacoma.)

> 6. And any other tricks or tips that
> you have would be greatly appreciated.

Don't worry too much about the final appearance of the finish. You will notice all the flaws but most people will ooh and ahh over it.

> Thanks everyone, I know I can always come here for lots of good advice and
> experience.

> Dave

If you need someone to paddle with for that month, just let me know, there are some great places to paddle between Olympia and Tacoma. My wife is not wanting to paddle as much now that the weather is cooling down.

Mike