I prefer maple for gliders, less weight to add for desired bouyancy.

There are numerous ways to go about making the lure.  Just some pointers as far as what I do.  I'm sure you will get some other good advice.

Trick is to find the right amount and location of weight to add to the lure.  Install the hardware to the rough finished lure.  Find a place to float the lure and do some bouyancy testing (I use the tank on the back of my toilet).  Find the spot that you can grab the lure with a finger on each side and pull it under water, while the lure balances with its back level to the horizon. If it tries to sit nose up - move forward, nose down - move back. Mark this spot. I call this the "center of bouyancy" for lack of a better term.  Attach lead until you find the desired bouyancy.  Drill a hole in the belly at the "center of bouyancy", melt lead and pour into into this hole. Seal the hole with 5 minute epoxy.

For starters I woud suggest not finishing the lure until you test how it runs. You can experiment a little with amount of lead until you like what you see before you invest time and effort into the finish. Be sure to err some to the light side as far as bouyancy to account for addition al sink from the paint and epoxy coat. You can always add another epoxy coat or heavier hooks if you end up a little lighter than you want but it is difficult to go the other way if you are too heavy.

Keep a template of what you use to trace the original lure with details as far as where you put the hardware and lead. This way you can duplicate and improve the design as you go along. Keep close track of how much lead you use and depth of lead hole (or holes if you decide to try dual placement). I use the big water gremlin sinkers so I can count out the number that I need for a given lure design.

Good luck and hope you enjoy the experience.