Eagler's Nest

Airframes => Single Seaters => Topic started by: Brock on March 25, 2026, 06:04:36 PM

Title: Varnish: type & amount for XL
Post by: Brock on March 25, 2026, 06:04:36 PM

My first wing is rounding the final bend and will be done soon.  I suspect the second wing will take only a fraction of time to complete.  So, my thoughts are turning to varnishing.  Reading the many search hits on the forum I see that Poly Fiber EV400 is popular.  Though most posts were a bit dated.  Is this what recent builders have used?

Also, How much varnish should I order?  I've no idea if I'll need a quart or four.

I'm planning on covering with Oratex (600 Antique).  A quick measurement of my wings and tail seems to suggest it will will require about 320 sq/ft but that does not include any fuselage covering.  I do plan to cover from just behind the seat to the firewall.  What measurements (sq/ft/meter) have others found to cover their birds?

Any other comments?

Title: Re: Varnish: type & amount for XL
Post by: Kamcoman77 on March 25, 2026, 08:42:28 PM

Water based urethane varnish is what I am using. The Oratex glue should be fine sticking to it. I buy a quart at a time and have no idea how much I will finally use. Since I buy it at Home Depot, I'm not worried about how much to buy. It comes in satin or gloss.

Title: Re: Varnish: type & amount for XL
Post by: Shay King on March 26, 2026, 11:58:02 AM

I checked with the UK Oratex distributor, he sent me a water based product called ’Ecoprime’. It’s not the same as the other Ekoprime that Aircraft Spruce has.

Title: Re: Varnish: type & amount for XL
Post by: Kamcoman77 on March 26, 2026, 01:23:05 PM

Definitely should use the sealer that Oratex recommends.