need recommendation on type of varnish to use

[lake of the woods]

I am needing to varnish a mahogany ladder-back helm chair. I have sanded it down to bare wood then applied 3 coats of west system epoxy. i
I have sanded down the epoxy and now need to do a couple coats of exterior spar varnish . What type / make of varnish would you recommend? I only need a pint so cost is not really an issue.

Mark
Lake of the Woods
1989 40 DC

 

[SeaEric]

A lot of people seem to like Epifanes. I hate it. It's thick like KING syrup. Captain's or Schooner should be fine. My old fav was Petit "Old Salem" but I'm not sure that's around any more.

 

[Bob Bradley]

I've had very good luck with Epifanes. Be sure to thin is properly.

 

[kelpy]

You will be having problems with varnish adhering to the epoxy over a rather short period of time. Keep the seat covered as much as possible.

 

[Boatsb]

Dont bother with varnish. Get a good quality spray clear coat from imron or awlgrip or the likes. Much longer lasting.

Let the epoxy cure well before sanding and washing it well

A little tip. Bring it to a shop and have them spray it. they should already have the catalyst and chemicals so you dont need to but them. That costs more than the clear.

 

[jim rosenthal]

I would suggest the AwlGrip two-part varnish, or take it to a paint shop and have them clearcoat it like Scott suggested. Newer two-part coatings hold up MUCH better than any single part varnish does.

 

[lake of the woods]

Thanks to all who replied.

I will talk to Bluewater Chairs in Fort Lauderdale and see if they will spray it for me.

Mark
Lake of the Woods
1989 40 DC

 

[SKYCHENEY]

Imron MS1 Clear.

 

[jim rosenthal]

I agree. It holds up amazingly well.