Adz, have you seen any Lap steel Kits in your meanderings through the Chinese Kit pages?
Lately I have been thinking about making a Lap steel. more out of respect for my late mother who apparently played a lap steel in her youth. folowed by the Piano in later life.
I found a few US people making them but at $150 plus postage for what is effectively a lump of 4x2 was a bit hot even if it was walnut.
Cheers PK