Preparation is the most important part of refinishing, especially piano refinishing. After stripping (varnish removing), much time and care is needed to produce a perfectly flat, flawless piece of wood, ready to accept lacquer. Any loose or missing veneer needs to be reglued or replaced and all dents and imperfections must be filled. After smooth sanding, pore filler is applied and left to dry several days after which time the parts are sanded again. Staining is next and at Ford Piano every piano is custom stained.

    Fifteen or twenty coats of lacquer are then sprayed on each piece with hand sanding in between coats. After the lacquer has properly cured a final "rubbing" is performed, hardware is polished and the piano is put back together with new rubber buttons and fallboard decal.

    The end result is a piano that looks indistinguishable from new on the outside.