The Marine Spar Varnish That Outshines the Rest
TotalBoat Lust Marine Varnish is a premium formula that combines the classic look of a rich amber finish with cutting-edge speed and ease of use. This fast-drying, high-build spar varnish lets you apply up to 5 coats in one day—with no sanding between coats—so you can start and finish your project in a single weekend. Ideal for boat brightwork, doors, trim, outdoor furniture, and interior wood, Lust creates a tough, flexible finish that won’t crack, peel, or fade in the sun. Choose Gloss for a deep, wet-looking shine, or Matte for a smooth, low-sheen finish that highlights the wood's natural grain. Easy to brush, roll, or spray. Provides long-lasting, waterproof protection for wood above the waterline in demanding marine environments, with only 1-2 maintenance coats needed yearly. Available in Pint, Quart, and Gallon sizes.
Brush, Roll, or Spray for a Beautiful Finish
For great results, there are a few spar varnish best practices to follow:
Proper Prep:
- Check the Weather: For best results, apply in temperatures between 60-85°F with humidity below 85%. Avoid direct sunlight, high humidity, or impending rain. Do not apply below 45°F or above 105°F.
- Prepare the Surface: Follow our technical data sheet for material-specific preparation. Sand the surface with 220-grit or 320-grit sandpaper for proper adhesion. Wipe down with a cotton rag and suitable solvent to remove contaminants before varnishing.
- Apply a Seal Coat: Thin the first coat by up to 100% with the appropriate TotalBoat thinner to help penetrate wood grain. A second seal coat may be applied if the first is highly absorbed. If desired, use TotalBoat Wood Sealer instead for faster sealing and better varnish adhesion. Never use Matte for seal coats.
Rolling or Brushing Application:
- Thin Lust 5-10% with Brushing Thinner 101 (always aim for the minimum amount needed for improved gloss and faster drytimes).
- Use a high-quality natural bristle brush or solvent-safe roller covers. Apply in thin, even coats along the wood grain using long, smooth strokes.
Spray Application:
- Thin 10-20% with Spray Thinner 101 (always aim for the minimum amount needed for improved gloss and faster drytimes).
- Apply in thin, even coats using long, smooth strokes.
Dry Time & Recoating:
- Based on the temperature, allow 1-8 hours between coats, with no sanding needed if applied within 48 hours. Apply no more than 5 coats per day.
- If sanding is needed, wait 48 hours, lightly scuff-sand with 320-grit sandpaper and remove dust with a clean rag or compressed air.
- Apply a minimum of 6-8 coats for improved gloss, depth, and UV protection. If using Matte, build up coats with High Gloss first, sand lightly with 320-grit sandpaper, then apply Matte in final 1-2 coats for a low-sheen finish.