Pat it dark here now, my camera doesn't do well inside. I use a router and inlaid the machine, just like singer does there's. between the belt holes there is a spot that has to be clearance for a nut under the machine bed.
I don't bother with hinges, because a machine sits very solid just like this, before this is finish, I'll find a deep baking pan and use that as a oil dip pan. The wood looks a bit hacked up, I spent my day light hours getting the head to fit tight.
I said hole for the belt, as you can see there slots, the reason is The belt can then be slipped under the machine without taking it apart
most building supplies will sell half sheet some time a 1/4 sheet of oak faced 3/4" plywood, then to dress up the edge there a iron on oak edging, as used on counter tops. its real oak the iron melts the glue, easy and sticks very well.. other than hunting oak coffee tables LOL
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