As others suggested, when I did this design I used 3/4" Oak. I used #3 & 4 skip tooth. I finished it with semi gloss poly. I did it for some other people who held a very special place in my life, as well as my wife. It is a beautiful design done in metal. It is a design of the Tree of Life done by Bill and Elaine Snell, BlackCat Artworks from Easley South Carolina, Elaine is the one who designed it. The first one I finished I sent to them simply thanking them. Mr. Snell made a metal base for it and gave it to his wife. I found these folks first and obtained permission to use the design. When I requested from them to post the pattern here on SSV they asked me not to, I honored their request out of simple respect, as well as law. I would be sure and give these folks the credit for the design. They have many other incredible designs done in metal-