Thanks Adam
Yep Alex you're right. Maine ply isn't nessecary, I only chose it as it was the nicest quality and my particular sample wasn't much heavier than pine ply. Also the $150 I quote includes buying sand paper, exterior varnish, glue and stainless steel screws. I reckon a good 10" base could be made for closer to $50 if you wanted.
But I never do things by halves
