Laminate, t-molding, wood widths and more

[Batchman]

All right, I was just about to go and buy my first sheet of wood, when I read something in a thread that made me decide I needed to do a little more research.

First off, I'm pretty sure I'm going laminate, instead of painting ... I just really like the professional look that comes from a good laminating job. And it looks like, unlike my first thought, you want to laminate -even- the parts you are going to cover with artwork. Which leaves me wondering, wood, plus laminate, am I going to have to go for a slightly thinner wood or slightly wider t-molding?

I know some people laminate both sides of the wood, and where there are places that the back side will show, I can completely understand that ... but what about for pieces where the back side will never be seen? What are peoples' thoughts on the matter?

Finally, in the USA (Florida to be specific) where should I look for arcade-quality laminate at a decent price? Just looking for a basic black.

And slightly off-topic, wow, this is an expensive hobby. The controls for my control panel are going to cost almost exactly $500. That's -before- I buy the wiring to hook them up with, and whatever control boards I am going to need! Ouch!

[wp34]

Buy vertical grade laminate. It is very thin. Almost paper thin.  You most likely will not even notice if the laminate is slightly wider. When I laminated my Fix it Felix I cut the I used 3/4 plywood and the t-moldkng looks fine. 

Sometimes you can find deals on eBay.  I've also ordered it from Home Depot before. Top Cabinet Hardware is really good to deal with as well.

[Batchman]

Top Cabinet has 'em on sale 50% off right now, $37 for a 4x8 foot sheet. Is that a good price? Wonder what kind of delivery charges there are?

AND since both are on sale for the same half-off ... any preference between Wilsonart and Formica? But ouch! Extra $30 for shipping to a residence?!?

Stuff looks nice, and ultra-thin, so it ought to work quite decently with the t-molding.

Another question I forgot to mention in my first post ... if the unit is going to be fairly well protected, do I want to go the plexiglass route? Or should I be fine with a strong vinyl product for the CP artwork, without the plexiglass?

[wp34]

Top Cabinet has 'em on sale 50% off right now, $37 for a 4x8 foot sheet. Is that a good price? Wonder what kind of delivery charges there are?

AND since both are on sale for the same half-off ... any preference between Wilsonart and Formica? But ouch! Extra $30 for shipping to a residence?!?

Stuff looks nice, and ultra-thin, so it ought to work quite decently with the t-molding.

If you are buying more that one sheet that is a good price.  The shipping isn't so bad the more sheets you buy.  I've used both Formica and Wilsonart and both are fine.

Another question I forgot to mention in my first post ... if the unit is going to be fairly well protected, do I want to go the plexiglass route? Or should I be fine with a strong vinyl product for the CP artwork, without the plexiglass?

I have machines with both plexiglass and ones with a standard CPO.  I much prefer the CPO.