Wood finisher Bob Chickey uses only natural resins and an array of shellacs from around the world to create custom finishes that enhance—not hide—the natural beauty of wood. His objective, he says, is to achieve total clarity in a finish. A shimmering chatoyancy is characteristic of his work.

Everything from architectural details to individual pieces of furniture can benefit from his skill with traditional hand-applied techniques. Each finish is developed specifically to the requirements of the client. He can match nearly any finish and recreate authentic period finishes. RCP Fine Finish. 763.545.9447. www.rcpfinefinish.com. Circle 176.