how do you make a burst finish?

sorry if this thread has been done. i want to know because i want to build a warmoth bass and do some kind of two tone burst finish on it. i want to do the finish myself so i can feel more accomplished. i am either going to use ash or alder with a maple top so i want to show of the grain.
is there and special equipment i will need?
what will work best as a finish?(i dont know all of the different types)
any other help is much appriciated

thank you
jonathan