Is there a reference work on types of finish to use on different types of wood?

I have a number of ongoing projects at home, some of which'll be MDF and some'll have decent wood. Is there a reference guide somewhere that lists the best types of finish (from experience) for different types of wood? For example, what's best to prepare MDF for finished painting? If I want to use oak, then what's the best way to prepare it in such a way that I can enhance the beauty of the wood without staining it too dark? That sort of thing.

I believe that Neil Ellis's book, 'A Polishers Hanbook', is supposed to be the defininitive works on finishing. Have a look at the Ubeaut site under products. http://www.ubeaut.com.au/index.htm

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Originally Posted by chrisb691

I believe that Neil Ellis's book, 'A Polishers Hanbook', is supposed to be the defininitive works on finishing. Have a look at the Ubeaut site under products. http://www.ubeaut.com.au/index.htm

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Ill second that..just got my copy in the post 2 days ago and its been open on the kitchen table ever since.

A book that should be in every woodies workshop.

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Originally Posted by kiwigeo

Ill second that..just got my copy in the post 2 days ago and its been open on the kitchen table ever since.

A book that should be in every woodies workshop.

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Good to see a man with his workshop in the kitchen;)