Im itching to build my own stand for a 30 gallon that i aquired. was wondering how complicated it is. i have limited carpentry experience, but i do have the tools.
pine should work good, just like the regular kiln dried pine or i heard douglas fir works good too, someone correct me if im wrong. it should be ok as long as its level is stable and has good bracing. your tank isnt too big either.
I've built multiple stands for my 33G all made of 2x4 and covered with plywood (or fancy wood...like you wish) I followed the plan on http://www.garf.org/ Go to the "DIY pages" tab on the left and then select "stand building" Enter the dimensions and it will give you what you need to know about how to build it. Good luck