I run a CNC router and lathe in our stairparts shop. We do about 20 diff. species a week, but some of the best for my "play" things is soft maple. It has little to no "wood grain", machines easier than hard maple, and stains MUCH easier. Also, Jatoba, or brazillian cherry as it's also known, is another really good carving wood. If you want, i could send you some diff. types to play around with. email me @ johnoly99@gmail_____._____com