Mike, I really like your 3rd idea, I have always worked with solid pieces not veneer for the reasons you suggest but I do like that idea id ever do try a veneer. Question on the shellac, I agree it sticks to everything and everything sticks to it. I also think that it is the most appealing finish I have ever used for most applications just from a looks standpoint I have always found it to be a brittle finish and it doesn't like moisture, I don't think moisture is a problem but I wonder if it would crack below the cover surface. Maybe it is just the kind I use. Any thoughts on that?