Quite simple question really. Im about to make a new case for an old PC, and would like to do so in wood. As i dont know if i will paint it yet, i thought i might get a plate who looked good without paint. So i need to know if any of you could recommend a sort of wood ideal for the purpore? Perhaps you've had some positive experiences with a certain kind yourselves? Do tell ;D Greets IK.
It depends partially on the type of construction. If you're doing a panel type construction where you'll need relatively thing, strong, large pieces, I'd recommend a very high quality Russian or Finnish Birch plywood. This could easily be left unfinished (or oiled or w/e) and would also take a great paint finish. If you're doing a frame type construction (ie most of my cases) then I'd recommend a good quality hardwood which would largely depend on what you can get in your area (which i'm not sure of). Some of my favorites though are cherry, maple, and mahogany (i'd avoid pine). What kinds of wood supplies are available? Do you have any sketches of your case design? That would make it easier to give you a more specific answer.
do you want it to resemble furniture (i.e. unbroken expanses of woodgrain) or do you want to mimic the organic art-y-ness of greensabbath's cases? if you want the furniture look, i would suggest going with structural components of a less expensive ply, and adding a quality veneer to stain or oil. would give a better finished look for a lot less money. on the other hand, if you are going for more of the look that greensabbath employs, by all means drop the $$ on the best stock you can get.
Personally, I favour Oroko. A nice deep, dark brown and it just smells so damn nice. I also think using a variety of burrs together would have an interesting effect. Oroko cheesecake though, or ebony if you can afford/stand to use it. It lacquers up nicely IIRC, but it's been a while since I last tried my hand at proper woodwork.
