Hello all you knowledgable folks - As I'm embarking on my first wooden boat project (Stand Up Paddleboard), I'm wondering what type of lumber will give the best looking grain pattern when cutting strips? Does anyone have some feedback on this so I know what to look for?

I'm planning on making most of the board out of western red cedar with some basswood on the top deck for strength and lighter color and then some purple heart and walnut for accent strips. I know I'm pretty limited here in Oregon as to what cuts I'll get on the walnut and purpleheart, but was wondering which cuts of cedar I should be looking for?

Thanks all for any advice.

Brett