TotalBoat varnishes can be applied to ipe wood substrates, but the naturally high moisture content and oily nature may present adhesion and/or cure challenges. There are a couple tricks that have proven to yield positive results. One is to sand the wood and clean the surface very thoroughly with a cotton rag dampened with acetone (do not use synthetic rags as they can break down and leave a residue when soaked with acetone). As soon as the acetone has evaporated completely, apply the varnish as directed. Another method is to apply a couple coats of dewaxed shellac to the surface before applying varnish.