Hi Guys,

I have been working on some wood scales recently and have problems with getting a smooth glossy finish when applying the clear acrylic coat. I am using a Marine Grade clear acrylic and usually apply 4 coats.
The coats are applied undiluted using a fine bristle paint brush as I don't have access to an air compressor or spray paint setup.
The issue I have is that the brush leaves a lot of streaking when applying the finish. Once it dries (about 4 hours waiting time), I then try to remove the streaks with 1000 grit wet/dry sand paper (Norton). This often causes another problem in that it is very easy to remove too much of the clear coat and take it back to bare wood. It seems that as I try to get that smooth finish on each coat, I do more harm than good on the job.
A couple of ideas have come to mind -
1 using a much finer grade of wet/dry like 2500 grit (not sure if it is available in Australia)
2 Break down the clear acrylic with something to make it thinner to apply and hopefully flow on better
3 Using a spray can of clear coat (not an option I like - too expensive)

Can any of the members chime in with their ideas thoughts or experiences with this?
Thanks in advance