What is the most practical way to varnish a dowel-like piece?

I’m starting up a punishment cane business, using kooboo rattan. I have already worked out a method to straighten the rattan, but I find that, when it comes to varnishing, it’s awkward.

So far, I have been doing them like: one end, dry, the other end, dry, etc. I also find that drying them is awkward, as well, because I have to find a way to not touch the wet varnish part onto anything.

I feel that there must be a more efficient way, or perhaps a method a bit more clever, and I’m just not seeing it. You guys are so creative and clever, please tell me what I should do!