Yeah, they guy I got the wood from does resin pouring to make coffee tables and the like and I was considering getting him to treat the body. It does come back a little to how heavy that would make it. I really want to make something that is enjoyable to pick up and play, while I don't mind a bit of heft, this one would be a bit of an ordeal.
I actually had my first Jam with other people in ages on the weekend and played 4 hours straight on the Hagstrom, which is solid mahogany. My shoulders (and fingers) are still feeling it.
Anyway, good to know re timber mate, I think that seals the idea of starting over.