Following a problem [respiratory-wise] with oil-based finishes due to the V.O.C.S I have used water based acrylic varnishes for about 5 years. No/low odour, brushes wash out in water and counter-intuitively, once dry, are waterproof. If by chance you have not replaced the lid firmly enough a drop of water will thin it out, too!

HTH

Doug

Hi Doug.  Thank you. I will lookout for a stockist. I have trouble with paint tin lids, making a mess of the edge.Best wishes. Kevin

Hi Q.    â€œ master of none” ?  After deciding to go with the left over Ronseal on my fiddleyard , I began well, but now the blind side of the job has dried a bit patchy. I could leave it as it is, or do a proper job, with the 120/ 240 glass paper?Have you any advice on the best option???  Best wishes.  Kevin

As long as the wood is sealed that all that matters,  you won't be looking at it normally. .

HiQ.  Thank you for your reassurance . But , I have met a few smart donkeys( or another name? ) wouldn’t you just know it , I removed all the metal fittings before varnishing the fiddleyard , and having very carefully screwed them on again I have a gap ,wider than I wanted.    Best wishes. Kevin