If you're decent at straight lines with an airbrush, this masking technique gives a great 3D effect
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFAAr42SxnM
Also, of course, you could just paint it a solid colour and be done with it. I just find that to be a bit plain for MY tastes.
I am of the personal opinion that if you are going to do something custom for yourself, it should be exactly what YOU want it to look like. If that's a nice solid colour, have at it. If you happen to be like me and like something unique, swirling gives a stunning visual, put a cool pattern on it, or even pay a custom car painter to do something special on it.
There is not enough sharpie art on guitars (hint: there will NEVER be enough)
I once thought I would paint my guitar black, temporarily fill in all the routes and such, then use a silver marker to write the lyrics to my first original song in my terrible handwriting all across it at an angle, clear coat it then remove the filling from the pickup routes and such, put the bridge, pickups and all the goodies back on/in, and voilà one of a kind.
Don't be afraid to think about what you want most. By choosing to refinish your bass, you have the opportunity to paint it however your heart desires. Don't let your perceived physical limitations turn you away from having your dream guitar.
As BassCliff would say,
Thank you for your indulgence,
JP