Material question

[PhilBrumley]

I am making a sign that has some pretty thin raised areas, it will be painted when done, so material look is not a problem, so my question- what is a good material 1/4"-1/2" thick, that cuts nice and doesn’t chip out thin raised letters? MDF? I learned pine isn’t it.
I’ll be using 1/16" bit, should it be up or down cut?

Thanks in advance

[WayneHall]

Maple is good and if it is going to be painted poplar is great and takes paint very well and cheaper priced. If you are going to be using a 1/16th bit i would go with an upcut.

[PhilBrumley]

Thank you!