I've made fine specimens of tail setups, using both foam plates (about three dollars for a lifetime supply from Kroger), or even better, slightly thicker to-go boxes. I reinforce the edges, and make hinges with clear packing tape. A 1/8" wood dowel epoxied in place makes a good pull-pull control horn. I usually assemble mine on a scrap of poplar wood, just because I always have some handy in the garage. That way, I can drill it out and use the tailwheel screws to mount the whole thing in place.

Do make sure you note the proper center of gravity with the stock equipment first, though, and keep it in the same place after all your modifications! Found out my first tail setup was too small and light when the plane went skidding into the ground from a shallow dive off a good slope!

Dan.