: Most people seem to agree Z-Spar Captains varnish is the best. I have used
: others with success too. As JJ mentioned, the main thing is to look for a
: marine spar varnish. That has the UV protection.

: Some people have been hanging the boat by the hatch openings. I've never
: tried that, but it seems like it would work.

: It is an open issue whether to use a good quality brush or a disposable foam
: brush. The main issues for me are technique, thinning and environment.
: Technique should be smooth and quick, brushing in one direction and
: resisting every temptation to go back over previously covered areas. You
: always try to keep a wet edge. Others have good methods too. Check Nick's
: book or the FAQ below, for example. Standard varnish from the can should
: be thinned a bit with mineral spirits (10% is usually recommended). That
: helps the varnish self level before drying. As for environment, cooler
: moderate temps and dry conditions help significantly. Don't varnish in a
: 90* garage or when it's rainy.

All these rules go out the window with S3LPU, so I'm told.

: Others here have used a wipe on method with varnish and blue shop towels.
: Supposedly the results are good, but I could never get it to work.

I never got it to build enough thickness, (though it was shiny) and it led to some UV damage on the deck of my Guillemot. I'll go thick and heavy, foam brushed, and nevermind the runs.

Shawn