bwoodie

I use Bullseye primer, the shellac in the red can. Just make sure you don't get it too thick or it might peel, like most other paints.

I just go to the local keg shop and pick up a tube of beer plastic beer cups. The clear ones with all the ridges on them. Set them side by side on a level surface and you have it. Wooden or plastic plant stakes work well for stirring. You can normally pick them up cheap at a garden center. As for the drying times, in a warm room (75+) I have had them dry enough to handle in well under 12 to 16 hours, but the coating isn't as thick as I would like. Under 70 degrees it will be thicker but can take 48 hours. 30 hours and still tacky doesn't sound good, but don't give up yet. I have some turning right now in about 50 degree air to see how thick it stays and how long it takes.