Three techniques for good varnish finish

 

1. Thin the finish.  Most varnishes will flow out better if you thin them a bit.  I like to thin the first couple finishes a lot (50:50), then move to 60:40, then 90:10 for subsequent coats.  Stir well to bring the flatteners into  suspension and regularly during application because they will settle out faster in a thinner finish.  I like to pour out the varnish into a separate container so I don't contaminate the can.
2. Brush technique.  First, use a good, natural bristle brush.   "Condition" it before use by wetting with mineral spirits, then wiping with a clean rag.  Dip the brush into the varnish and remove excess on the side of the container.   Start the strokes away from edges or you'll get a run on the edge.   Work from one end to the other.  When the whole surface is covered, wipe the varnish off the brush, hold it nearly vertical and "tip-off" the finish by lightly passing the brush from one end to the other.  This fills the dry spots and cuts down the heavy spots.
3. Sand between coats.   Let the finish dry at least overnight.  Sanding will remove the defects like dust, lint, and bubbles in the slow-drying finish.   A good sandpaper is 3M's 216U, sold as "Sandblaster."   P400 grit is a good one to use.   This will level and remove the defects.   A follow up with light gray Scotch-Brite™ Ultra Fine Hand Pad 7448 will provide an even dullness.  Remove the dust with a cloth dampened in mineral spirits or naphtha.   Steel wool can leave shards that might eventually rust.

 

As silly as this sounds, do you have a good technique for pouring the finish from the can into another container? Every time  do it I make such a mess with drips down the side and filling the can groove, I gave up trying. Right now my technique is to use a gravy ladle and spoon it out into the "use" container (btw, I never return that back to the original can, either). I've tried finding those pour spouts for one quart cans and cannot locate them, it seems they are only made for gallon cans. I tried cutting one down to fit a quart can and was semi-successful doing that. But so far dping that (pouring it out neatly) has eluded me for the most part.

Usually, I dip it out with a paper cup.  I save all sorts of plastic containers from the kitchen (coleslaw containers, peanut butter jars, etc.) run them through the dishwasher and use for my "dispenser" to brush from.

Keith, I like brushing the finish, wiping being my favorite, but during my quest to stay away from spraying, I like brushing, plus there is a nice peace I find while brushing a finish on. That being said, what are the max results one should expect from brushing? With proper techniques, is it fair to expect a fine smooth finish free of strokes?

Thanks for another great lesson, Keith.