I agree with carlz - neat reteo
look. Reminds me of a vintage Bauer…

cant offer any advice regarding epoxy finish. I did my first (and last!) epixy build for a surf rod this past spring and hated every minute of it. Varnish is so much more forgiving…

Nice build. Love the color combo. I am more of a marine spar person. Thin coats with multiple application. Never used heat but warm room temp and air dry. Although would be curious to try the the light bulb method.