OK, first off: I had to settle for not just Varathane, but brushing it on as well. Yes, I know there are better solutions and preferable methods. But for my situation, this is how it had to be. I accepted that and plowed on bravely.
And you know what? It looks GREAT. I applied my final coat last night and this morning it was nice and level... not razor-flat, but waaaaaaay better than where this pf was when I started. And no nasty keyline edges and such. So it's almost done I think, except for two things:
1) Wouldn't you know it, there is a tiny line of pinprick bubbles in one spot. Is there a safe way to remove just this spot? On previous coats I of course sanded the whole bf in between... but I am hoping this one can count as the final.
2) I have read here and on other woodworking forums. Apparently sanding a final coat of Varathane - even with intent to work to finer grades - is something you DO NOT DO. But nobody's really gone past that. So, what SHOULD I do as far as a recommended final polish and wax? I assume the auto polishes work best for auto clears. I understand Varathane is not quite as durable, so I don't want to screw it up.
Since I am a glutton for punishment, I do NOT have a power buffer - I painted this by hand, cleared by hand, sanded by hand.... yeah, I'm an old-school idiot. But this is new to me. So what is the best way to proceed and finish this without destroying my hard work and thrilling (to this point) results?