: Thanks Rob,

: I'll take up your technique when I'm ready for varnishing again. I
: assume you meant 16" square (not 16 square inches,
: 4"x4"). How do you feel about the other suggestions to
: use a foam roller?

: -Gary

Yes, I did mean an area 16" to a side.

The marine spar varnish I use and many use, is designed to be brushed on.

The brush stroke aids in creating a perfect smooth surface.

With a final finish like this, surface tension can be an issue and at times I find I have to
press and lightly scrub a spot with the brush to overcome a spot that does not want to wet-out.

I don't think a roller will do as well as a brush. A roller is useless for detailed areas like the cockpit coaming.

I like using a roller to apply coat of epoxy on fiberglass since the rolling action is less abrasive on the
course cloth surface, and generates less foam or bubbles. But excepting the glass wet-out, I always
tip-off the resin with a brush to smooth out drips and runs.

I use good quality 2" and 4" foam brushes available from boat building supply stores.

Extra care and experience is needed to do a good job with a foam brush in areas like the cockpit coaming
and hatch lips, recessed deck hardware and the such. Work with a drier than normal brush because any
slight pressure will squeeze the brush like a sponge and drop a load of varnish that will run. I have a dry
brush on hand to go over places that look like they've gotten too much varnish.

Finishing is the last skill you want to learn!

Good Luck All!

Rob