Any wood workers out there have a suggestion on the type of wood? Pine is soft and easy to work with, maybe I'll go for that and counter sink a nut, bolt and lock washer to attach the FMB. Hmm to paint or to stain???
If you go with pine and decide to stain it keep in mind that pine being a softwood will really soak up the pigment in stain quick. I suggest first applying a coat of conditioner, available where stains are sold like Home Depot, etc. It will block the stain a little so it doesn't turn out too dark. You might want to experiment with the side that will go up against the wall. If you are going to paint I would suggest poplar wood. It takes paint well and is harder that pine but still easy to work with.
