I am planning to build a steamer trunk for my daughter. She is going to college next year. I have built 2 trunks already and I have a good plan, but the trunks are pretty heavy at 40-45 pounds. The first two I made out of red oak. I would like to build a trunk that doesn't weigh so much.
What options do I have to make a trunk that weighs less? Different type wood? I suppose pine would be an option. A few dings would be acceptable, but would it hold up to moving around? In a college environment, the trunk gets used for storage of stuff and also as a chair or table.
I attached a picture of the trunk. (It's from a Rockler Plan.) Here is a link to it.
Any insights would be appreciated.