Builders' Forum Archives

Paint vs. Varnish

Posted by J. Calvert on Jun 6, 2007

Well after nearly 10 years (it's a long story) I'm finally near completetion of my Chesapeake 18.

I'm struggling with the decision to paint the hull w/varnished deck or just varnish the entire kayak.

I have a few blemishes here and there in the wood, but nothing that I can't live with if the boat was varnished.

I've read the tips about painting the strip over the top of the deck, but I'm a little intimidated about that transition from paint to varnish.

I'm curious what your thoughts are on the overall amount of time required to complete each method?

Thanks,

Jim