Just use a good cement that won't soak thru the fabric. It's all about the attention to detail when finishing a cab. What you put on your cab is all about how you prepare it to accept the finish. Leave it "rough" sanded for the cement to "bite" into the wood. IIRC, bgavin finished a cab in Formica! I am considering a fine laminate finish on a pair of SLAs for more SWMBO approval.
"See, honey! I told you they are beautiful pieces of furniture!"
I know money often seals the deal, but seriously, quality is an investment, not an expense... Grant Bunter
Accept the fact that airtight and well-braced are more important than pretty on the inside. Bill Fitzmaurice