In Michigan we are starting haul out/layup season. Along
with buttoning the boat up for the winter, many let winter
double as project time. A good winter project is to take
varnished items such as floor boards and drawers home.

Working with wood and varnishing is part science, part black
art. There are many variables including environment,
humidity etc. See below for some basics.

Once home, be prepared to spend more time preparing the
surface to be varnished than you spend on applying the
varnish. The quality of the varnish job depends on the
preparation!

Starting from bare wood use #320 sand paper to get a smooth
surface. Sand parallel to the grain. From old varnish, in
good condition 220 should do the job. Make sure that there
is NO shine left from the old varnish.

Brushes depend on personal preference. Choices include
bristle and foam brushes.

I’ve had great success using Interlux #333 brushing liquid
applied before each coat as directed on the can.

Starting from bare wood I use varnish thinned 50% for the
first coat. My varnish work has been with oil varnish though
poly varnish givers good results.

How many coats? From bare wood five coats gives good depth.
Doing an annual varnish job I find that one coat does it for
us in our northern environment. Maybe a second coat in the
sunny south with longer sailing season. Two coats on steps
and other areas such as companion way steps that are worn
down by heavy use.

Almost essential is a work space that can be kept dust free.
Also avoid varnishing in warm bright sun. That last can
cause some big deep puckers that take lots of elbow to sand
out.

Enjoy your sanding/varnishing !

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