I do not like the way my PG rod finish turned out. I used a brush (just following the instructions on the bottle), and it came out wavy. Can the PG be removed, so that I can try again? Or, is there a way to smooth out the waves (I suspect not, but don't know for sure). Any advice or constructive criticism would be greatly appreciated.

The Permagloss can be removed with slight heat but if the blank is finished with a coating of any type it will be removed. If your finish is "wavy" could it be that it has "dumbbells" on the ends? If so simply take a small flat 220 - 400 grit stick and hold it flat while turning at speed. It will cut down the hump and you can reapply a thin coat to finish. Perma Gloss is a produce that uses very very thin coats.

PermaGloss will never produce a smooth, flat finish like epoxy. That's been discussed here many times although you may not be aware of it. It tends to dry in very slight waves or rolls. No bad looking, just different than epoxy.

You're going to find it very difficult to sand precisely because it's extremely hard. But it can be done.

If you want a smooth surface just overcoat with an epoxy. The process is fine and will result in a little more weight but gives a nice look. Go easy on the epoxy and put on only enough to get the look you desire. Try to keep additional weight to a bare minimum.

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I will just adjust my expectations. Probably easier than anything else, at this point. I wasn't expecting complete smoothness, although I probably put it on a little too thick. I had read other posts about using coffee filters or foam brushes to apply PG to the blank, but decided to follow the manufacturer's directions, since this was my first try. I am re-working an old spinning rod that's not worth what I've spent on parts and finish (and I haven't spent much...). My sole purpose is to learn whatever I can, before I spend a little more money on a new blank and components.
Next, I will be wrapping the ferrule, and I think that the brush method of application will work just fine for that.
Thank you for the comments.

I used Permagloss on a painted rod to protect the paint. Later, prior to epoxy on the threads, I used alcohol to clean things up. Off came the Permagloss. Don't know if this was a one time unusual thing, but it sure was a horrifying thing in my situation!

Pesco Ergo Sum

I can't say for sure, but that sounds like you didn't prepare the surface prior to applying the PG. PermaGloss is so hard and so tough that it's practically indestructible once cured. But you have to have a good, clean water-break-free surface for it to bond to.


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