I am fairly new to woodworking. I have completed three projects, a bookshelf, some shelves and a birdhouse. Aside from the birdhouse, I have primarily buit with Red Oak/Oak and have applied stain to complete the project. SWMBO has asked that I build a bookshelf for my daughter (7 yrs old). SWMBO would like to paint the bookshelf instead of staining. I am assuming it is a sin to paint oak so I thought I would buy a cheaper species of wood that will provide a smooth surface for painting. Since I don't have a planer/joiner I have been purchasing wood from the Home Depot.
What are your opinions on the type of wood I should build this project with? I planned on building the carcus/shelves out of birch plywood, and the face frame and top with Pine lumber. Is this a reasonable plan? Any other suggestions on wood choices? Is birch/pine too soft for a kid's bookcase?
Thanks
Clemey