I am new to this fourm but I have lurked awhile reading your comments and would like some advice. I have a Mad River Traveler solo canoe that needs some refinishing to the woodwen gunwales and a lesser job to the crossmembers [they still look pretty shiney] . On the gunwales the varnish ? is peeling off, I figured on giving the wood a light sanding [120 grit] then applying a coat of polyurathane, let dry then a light sanding [150 grit] then a second coat. Does this sound like a reasonable solution? What are your suggestions? If you suggest a differant product to use please use the brand name, so I can get the right stuff. Thanks in advance. FRED

Sanding and surface prep:

Shoot for a uniform wood color especially on the tops of the gunwales and thwarts (where it will catch your eye). If the wood has discolored due to weathering, you will see that discoloration after you apply your slick new coat of varnish....... so yeah, you definitely need to sand the existing finish and bare wood....... and remove loose crap........

Remember that your finish will only look as good as your surface prep.

Surface preparation is a pain and you will not know when it is good enough....... (transitions between bare wood and old finish). you can wipe down your work with a damp rag (damp, not wet) after you THINK your job is done. The colors you see are the colors you will get after the varnish. The damp rag will also raise the grain, so you will need to re-sand after wiping.

I would take the thwarts off and finish on the bench. It will be easier to sand with the grain. Cross grain wood scratches will remain with you after your new coat of varnish :(