Sorry to bump a thread that is about a month old but could I ask a question as a new builder?

I've built one rod with epoxy and am considering spar for my next build. Do you only apply varnish to the threads, or do you allow it to spread over to the blank like you do with epoxy?

Welcome, glassguy! I'd echo what carlz said. He and other master builders here will have better answers on this subject, but I do recommend your moving to varnish. It's much easier and more pleasant to work with, though you do have to let it cure for a couple of weeks after final coat. This penalty is partially offset by the ability to do a multi-piece rod all at once, per coat. You have to be pretty fast, or mix multiple batches, to do that with epoxy. Then there'd be the requirement for a multi-piece rod dryer or the like.

For what it's worth, I try to coat only the threads, but I don't worry about a little overrun to the blank, especially there the guide feet go under the wraps. I'm just a (somewhat spastic) hobbyist, though: the pros and talented home-builders are able to get the varnish just on the thread.

And Tomah, If you've seen my builds, you would not call me a master builder. I do want to nip that one in the bud. If you build enough rods. One of them is bound to come out looking nice.

Varnish is nice from a hobby builder standpoint because it is more forgiving. However keep the layers thin. Epoxy looks great, but it really frustrates me from time to time.

Above all else, patience. If something doesn't look perfect, cut the wrap off and start again. Epoxy or varnish is just going to make the problem look worse.