Hi TX Yakker
I recently had similar problems with my varnish and it was solved by the addition of a bit more thinners (no more than 10 percent)
Also know there's more than one way to skin a cat but this how I do my varnishing which avoids having to use masking tape anywhere at this stage.
1.With the seats out make up a pair of battens with pointed ends that can be bolted in place to use as supports when the hull is turned over.
![Image](http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn18/alickburt/Canoe%203%20construction/Photo-0002-7.jpg)
2..with the hull in the carpet cradles (upright)and all dusted off ready.coat the inside of the hull first and then the gunwales as far as the deck coamings.
3.Get your assistant to help you lift the hull onto the handy simple supports screwed to the strongback.
![Image](http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn18/alickburt/Canoe%203%20construction/Photo-0003fry.jpg)
I know the picture quality is poor but you get the idea!
4.coat the decks and gunwales to the end.
5.coat the outside of the hull.
6.Watch over and check over for runs.
There is of course another advantage to this method which is you get to put a whole coat on all the parts in a day!and er no masking tape...
Cheers
Alick