This article describes a method for producing opaque lacquer finishes like the ebony finishes on grand pianos. The technique is intended for use in small shops, where polyester finishing is impractical. The author has experimented successfully with a polyester/nitrocellulose finish. The first step is to choose a wood that will not swell and crack; mahogany is a good choice. The wood must be well smoothed and filled; the author uses a polyester filler called Prestec 2090. Once dry, the hardened polyester is sanded carefully to produce the smoothest possible surface. For the lacquer, the author prefers to use nitrocellulose lacquer made for the automotive industry. He recommends against acrylic lacquers. It is important during spraying not to use too thick a lacquer because a crazing or checked surface will result. Once imperfections are remedied, the piece should dry for at least two weeks before final polishing. Procedures for obtaining the highest gloss from the final polishing are described.