Well, the Arctic Tern is almost finished and I'm in the boat shop with my new ROS trying in vain to get into the zen of sanding. A true Zen Master I'm not, as I'm getting increasingly concerned that the fiberglass weave is starting to show and there are still plenty of little shiny spots on the surface.

Meanwhile I'm also worried about this "black art" of varnishing that I've heard is very easy for a newbie to screw up. I keep reminding myself that it's a kayak, not a coffee table, and with that thought in mind I wonder: "why not use one of the many finishing products that are made nearly idiotproof for homeowners to finish decks, siding, etc.?"

Of course those are designed to soak into wood, not epoxy, but the question remains "Is there a product that is easier to apply and more reliable than varnish that will still give an acceptable finish?"

Bardo