Zip Guard is a water base poly. I can use it to clear over any paint. It goes on like water. it's cloudy and then dries clear. There can be bubbles all over the shaft and will dry smooth. I get it in the gloss finish and steel wool it to make it satin. I only need 2 coats, one over stain  and one over crown and crest. Years ago I tried other water base poly's and had some run the paint. Zip Guard does not. I only dip and can do a dozen at a time.