Goop

Is there a trick to keep installs nice and neat using Marine Goop?  I have managed to put enough on to make sure the additions are waterproof... but I seem to get this stuff everywhere and it dries so fast it does not look neat.  I was thinking I could probably clean it off/clean it up with paint thinner, but I don't want to damage the kayak.

Suggestions?  Thanks!

I just apply, squish, and let dry completely.  Once it is dry I can carefully cut the excess off with an X-Acto knife. 

You can also scrape off the excess with a popsicle stick while it is still soft.