Silverghost
Yoda

Offline
A well kept secret - imo - is to use the plywood that is used to make cutting dies for either corrugated or folding cartons. It is extremely durable, does not warp and is easy to work with. I don't believe it is very expensive - is probably a little more than ordinary plywood but less than a piece of solid wood. I believe the top lay is either maple or birch so you could probably use an appropriate color stain to get the look you want. Goggle "Plywood for cutting dies". Hope this helps.