kick panel replacement material

[Ron Nossaman]

J
> I have a school piano (Baldwin/Hamilton 243) that is missing the kick 
> panel ( the one that goes between the bottom of the keybed and the toe 
> rail).  Please don't ask me where it went as I have no idea....
> Any thoughts about what material to use to replace it with??
> I've considered MDF with maple veneer - which isn't very strong imho.
> I'm also considering Baltic Birch Plywood - which is a much stronger 
> material.
> I also know that any material I use will have to be stained to match the 
> rest of the piano.
>  
> Your input will be appreciated.
>  
> John Fortiner
> Montana


You could probably get a surplus bright red one with 
headlights and an Elvis portrait from Gibwin. It might prove 
to be more theft resistant too. Who'd want to be seen carrying 
that off? Baltic Birch would be my next choice.

Ron N