Material suggestions for column??

[myxpykalix]

I'm trying to make a corner accent piece for my wainscoting project, see:
http://www.talkshopbot.com/forum/messages/17997/18005.html?1171336954

I need to make a 3/4 column for a 90 degree corner. I thought of using pvc pipe but after getting my jig made, mounting the material and trying to run flutes down it the pvc chipped and jumped around while being cut and just turned out to be a disaster so thats just not going to work.
I need suggestions on what other material (preferably already round) might be good to make this out of? I'd like it to be lightweight if possible. I just can't think of anything. thanks

[jhicks]

Jack, there is always HDU foam but not too hard and would be subject to damage on a corner especially. I know folks have a technique for "Hard Coating" but i have never done it so others will know if this is a good idea or not.
Material wise, it will be incredibly easy to shape in many ways and routs like a dream.
Maybe 20# HDu would be the choice but if you need wood, Poplar is a good choice for clear mid range wood cost and machines very well.
Just need to turn on a lathe or indexer or perhaps buy preturned posts.