lap desk

[silver-twigs.livejournal.com]

Hi I am making a gift for someone who is bed-ridden. I want to make a lap desk. Here is a link of a picture of a fancier one:
http://store1.yimg.com/I/brandsonsale-store_1830_54492497

I have bought an appropriate top, styrofoam and fabric are on the way. My question are:
-what is the best fabric to use for this?
-Pattern?how do I cut the fabric so that I won't end up with any slits in the corners? I am thinking of hemmings an inch in and then glueing that part onto the board.
-What glue is best for fabric to cardboard? welbond or gluegun?

Any other ideas on how to make this in a more convenient way are welcome.