Painting and Varnishing is part art and part science.
This book contains twenty-four articles from WoodenBoat Magazine covering Stripping Old Paint, Dealing With Mildew, Scrapers, Wate.
No matter the standard of finish -- utilitarian through show quality and anything in anything in between -- the keys to it are a well-conceived plan of action, the correct choice of tools and materials, a careful preparation of the surface, proper application of the coating, and a "feel" for what you are doing.
Painting and Varnishing is part art and part science