open face pinblock

[Owen J Greyling, RPT]

List,

I'm replacing an open face pinblock in a grand that really could benefit, at
least aesthetically, with the application of a face veneer.

I wanted to use some highly figured mahogany crotch veneer that I've been
saving, but am wondering if something a little less exotic might stand a
better chance of staying together when we drill the block. 

Any advice or words of experience?  Please?

Thanks in advance,,

Owen