I draw pretty well, but I always wanted to be a great sculptor. I effing SUCK at sculpting. Yes, it breaks my heart…but it’s cold-hard fact. I’d say–if you need–give it another whirl with better materials.
However, if the result repeats itself…then I’d say it’s time to come to terms and buy a retail market stick.
Though, some would say…“if at first you don’t succeed,” try try again?
Look around, look at what preexisting wood or metal (perhaps both) boxes can be easily re-purpose as a Stick.
I seen some amazing sticks that started as some wooden box someone found at a good will.
And if you use Plywood again, get one with a good external surface (furniture grade plywood) or use the plywood as internal only structural support.
Most people have already suggested TEK cases, but I’ll throw my hat into the ring as well.
I started with a TEK case and still use it to this day, at least until my HRAP4 shows up.
FocusAttack now has their Makestick case, which I think is about $55 and comparably priced with the TEK case.