How to get clean lines when varnishing

[Pub911]

I'd like to get the look of brightwork that's been installed after it's been finished. But my taping attempts always seem to leave varnish on the deck or deck paint on the brighwork.

Any tricks, tools or products that work to give a 'new-installation' look?

[CalebD]

The best way to get that 'clean lines' look when varnishing is to take the wood off the boat and finish it in an appropriate environment - a non dusty shop preferably.
Short of that there is taping and applying your finish in situ (in place). I always have a can of thinner and a clean rag handy for cleaning up unwanted droplets that inevitably fall on the wrong spot. I have even forgone the whole taping ceremony and tried to do it with a steady hand and only clean up with my rag and thinner. Saves a bit of time if you are handy with a rag and thinners.
If you go the taping route make sure to try to smooth out the leading edge of the tape where the paint line is as rumples in the tape may let in some finish and ruin your line. Any run of finish under the tape can be corrected by a carefully used straight edge razor blade that can bend a little.
Good luck.

[poopdeckpappy]

3M fine line tape and take your time taping, also there is no reason you can't use a badger hair artist brush ( 1/2-3/4' wide ) around the base of your woodwork.

Also take a wrap or two of tape around the bristles and brush handle, it kinda helps keep the wild hairs under control