OK, guys I need to draw on your many years of woodworking experience....My mother wants me to make and paint a spoon rest for her. I know certain kinds of woods should not be used in the kitchen because of bacteria growth, but I have to consider the softness of the wood, as I will be hand carving (since I lack the tools I need:crybaby2: ) Any suggestions on what type of wood to use and also what type of clear coat to put on it?? Or do any of you know of where I can purchase a plain wood spoon rest at a very reasonable price??