Hi Tom;

That's the same mix that Rob recommended as well. Other than using linseed oil on rifle stocks, the butcher block roll-around, and for furniture finish repairs, I have never used it on a boat or paddle - I'm too impatient! I used varnish on both of my paddles, although the Euro-style was epoxied (and glassed on the blades) as well.

I mis-spoke on my original post, I think both varnish and linseed oil are of the genre' "enamel." All laquer-type finishes will redissolve in their original solvent, and I don't think linseed oil does, and I KNOW varnish does not. Fingers faster than brain syndrome . . .

Why do people add linseed oil to varnish? Spar varnish on its own will rub nicely onto wood, and a thinned first coat really sucks into the wood. I like it cuz it dries reasonably fast, is waterproof, and if you buff with quad-ought steelwool it produces a nice satin finish. I never even thought of adding linseed oil to my mix, as it would slow things down considerably, and I don't see any advantage to be gained. I am not asking this to be confrontational, just to gain knowledge - - Sometimes it's hard to see on a bbs when the person asking the question is not in view . . . ;-)

Best Regards, Spidey