I decided to paint my hull with the copper paint supplied and at first this looked fine. But I have noticed that with the constant handling I am starting to leave marks on the hull. I suspect my sweaty hands are reacting with the copper paint and there are visable finger marks on the paint. I will give the Hull another coat before I get on to the rigging but want to avoid the problem reoccuring.

Would it be a good idea to apply a coat of varnish ???? or does anyone have a better idea.

Hi Gil
you have 2 choices here leave it untill your ready to do the final painting or repaint now and either varnish or laquer the copper part.If you leave it then yes some more marks will appear but no real damage will be done untill you repaint on the other hand if you do decide to repaint and varnish then it may be a good idea to cut down your handling to a minimum,so a good cradle for the ship to sit in would be recomended.I think one of the vic builders made one up and posted the dimemsions on his diary but i cant remember who sorry
If you do decide to repaint now you will need to degrease her with some soapy water then rub down and make good the marks you have finaly go over with a little thinners on a rag to remove any dust and the mask and repaint,then use a laquer or varnish to finish.hope this is of use to you
regards
Andy