How Much Awlgrip Griptex To Add To Varnish For Swim Platform

[Lean Wolf]

I just could not resist using Epiphanes Varnish to redo my swim platform. I wanted the wood to match the rest of the boat. That being said.... I bought some Awlgrip Griptex to add to the final coat or two of varnish (it kills me to say that!). Does anyone have any thoughts on the percentage of Griptex Coarse to add to the varnish to get some grip on the platform? I do not want to destroy the finish however I have children swimming off the boat all of the time I feel it needs to be done. Any words of wisdom would be appreciated.

[yorklyn]

what grit did you get? I bought a gallon can of the coarse, tried a test spot and ordered the fine grit. it was way too rough. I used very little grip text on the non skid on bow and cockpit. a little goes a long way. I did not use it with varnish. I used it with the awlgrip top coat. I would strongly suggest making a test sample with a piece of scrap first so you can play with the texture.
If my memory is correct ,I made 1 qt batches. i filled a few red solo cups with about 1.5 inches of griptext and added one to each qt of paint (was trying to keep the same general consistency with the grit)
I didnt have any luck with the "sprinkle " method, it was too irregular, even when using a sugar sifter to apply it.
not sure how pre mixing it with varnish would work but id be more inclined on trying to sprinkle it. if its the fine grit, Id try using a salt shaker and just take your time.

good luck

[todd brinkerhoff]

Sprinkle it on when its tacky, then take an air hose on very low pressure and blow it around evenly.