Carpentry and Woodworking - Bar varnishing problems

I built a bar out of old oak slabs in a butcher block style with various attractive defects like worm holes, tite knots and things like that. Once built I stained with golden oak stain and varnished with so far 5 coats spar varnish. My problem is that some holes filled in fine, others just wont stop taking the varnish and leaves holes still in the top. How do I stop up the holes and cracks after already applying the first 5 coats? Thanks, Don

Short of stripping and following the procedure outlined below, use a toothpick to drip varnish into the holes, etc. Let dry and repeat as often as needed.

I always suggest using a paste wood filler on open grain wood when you want a dead smooth finish - it comes in either oil or waterbase.

Sand out after drying and then stain - the filler will still show the areas filled because it takes stain differently - but the top will be smooth.

Then apply the finish of your choice. I prefer bartop varnish (sometimers know as Rock Hard). It's made specifically for heavy use applications.

Available in one brand or another from Rockler & VanDykes.

Spar varnish is typically used only on outside furniture - the name comes from the original use weatherproofing spars on wooden sailing ships

Are you sanding between coats of varnish?

I agree with George that spar varnish/urathane isn't a great choice for your top. Because it's formulated for xterior use, it doesn't dry to as hard a finish = won't wear as good as regular poly.

btw - welcome to the forums!

Yes I am sanding between coats. I used this varnish because I read several posts elsewhere that this would work and also the stuff I really wanted cost 80 bucks for 32 ounces. Ill keep trying to fill and see where it gets me. Thanks, Don