So that it's more, 'Tailored Made to Fit" opposed to, 'off the rack'. You have control over every single variable. To me that's the drive.
Here's mine. It just had to be this way:)
https://www.tdpri.com/threads/got-her-done.696444/
I'm a huge fan of poplar in guitar builds! Ive built 2 Strats, 2 neck-thru Firebird 1's, and a couple customs. I predominantly use really old, reclaimed poplar. It machines really well. Ive had great luck with gel-stains on poplar. No preconditioning needed. Just sand to 80 and rub it in/off...
Though it has it's own challenges while working with, heart pine's by far my favorite electric guitar species. The guitar in my profile pic is heart pine and my number 1 player. Enjoy the process, and don't finish-sand until the day you're gonna shoot it;)
Hey, Your guitar is coming out GREAT!!!! I made a similar build if you'd like to check it out. May give ya some ideas:)
http://www.tdpri.com/media/heart-pine-guitar-build.36051/
Stewmac offers great fingerboards that are affordable. They are radius'd and slotted. I def think you should build your own neck, the benefits are totally awesome. Any size and profile ya want! Really excited to see your progress!!!
I've always used titebond for frets and never had a problem with it. Much easier cleanup than CA glue, great holding power. Build's coming out great!!!!!