Just showing the difference of the untreated and treated Cedar. I love the dark red color it brings out. I am working on a series of these out of Cedar, Walnut, Red Oak and Poplar. I will post an overall picture when I am done.
The pattern calls for 1/4 wood so You could stack cut the main part of the cross. I only use the 1/4 for the wings the main body is 3/4. I just like it better that way.
My Jet saw does this more and more frequently. I have to keep my tape measure near so I can readjust it. I haven't found anything yet that will fix it.