: I would suggest that the smudge is deeper than the surface. It
: sounds like the wet varnish was unable to dry due to being
: against the braces and probably moisture due to humidity
: penetrated the varnish or there was off gassing from the foam
: that covered the braces. I have seen this happen before with
: customers boats when they try to varnish both sides of the kayak
: too quickly by turning it over before one side is fairly dry. It
: may go away with time as the varnish dries, but I think a deeper
: sand is require

Actually, I had this set up where I put Brass fitting in the loop holes then ran foot long threaded bolts thru ( NO harm to cedar that way). I attached ropes to the ends of the long bolts and hung from ceiling...then when I finished varnishing Waterlox Marine High Gloss) the bottom, we simply held the bolts...turned the boat over and did the deck. So nothing was sitting on anything while drying. Left the kayak hanging for 5 days. I put two coats on bottom and three on the top. Yesterday an automotive shop loaned me an oscillating grinder with a FOAM attachment and...two types of rubbing compunds...mild and More aggressive. NEITHER of these two compounds helped at all on the foggy lines.
A couple of people have mentioned TRAPPED SOLVENTS...and heat as a possible answer to situation. But...how much heat...how long...and just what is LOW heat? Plus...what could I mess up by applying heat to areas??? ulp...make that double ULP!!
When I figure out ( I'm 67) what URL address means and how it works...will post pics of my baby.
right now....thinking VIIIIKKKKKKIIINNNGGGGGGG FUNERALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL! ( wife says that is not an option). since I have NO PLANS to put it in water...guess I can wait till spring and see what occurs.
As to ONE MORE COAT of varnish...no problem with that. BUT..."sanding"...OUCH! to my mirror finish beauty. People, it looks like glass...what grit are you recommending? 1,000....2,000???? Think I wood have to have a few beers in me before tackling the sandpaper on my deck........ vic in Kansas

IF you want to see pictures...I have a 15 picture (BEFORE smudges) gallery set up on Kodak site. Send me your email...and I'll send you an invite. 1943druten@everestkc.net