Have hit a snag in that I haven't ordered epoxy, yet. Might wait until next paycheck--or charge it and put it off that way...
Can't join the panels, yet, though and that is making me impatient...maybe the Discover balance isn't too high...
In the meantime, I'm thinking about how the panels would look stained. Here's a pic of both sides of the plywood I'm using--Luann from HD, I think, but I went back and forth so many times to Lowe's and HD before borrowing the truck...anyway

and another showing more detail of the "ugly" side--or maybe them knots adds character...
I'm thinking a dark enough stain would mute the appearance of the knots. Any thoughts on which side would look better outside vs. in???