Johnturner,
Have you gotten the 1911 grips you were interested in for your son's friend? If not, let me know, I have several sets already made and can probably help you out. Below are some representative pictures of some I have made.
Thanks,
-jason
Quartersawn Sycamore
http://i67.Rule #2/albums/h309/tocws2002/Projects/PistolGrips/June%202013/DSC04352.jpg
Jatoba
http://i67.Rule #2/albums/h309/tocws2002/Projects/PistolGrips/June%202013/DSC04361.jpg
Lacewood
http://i67.Rule #2/albums/h309/tocws2002/Projects/PistolGrips/June%202013/DSC05271.jpg
Ziricote
http://i67.Rule #2/albums/h309/tocws2002/Projects/PistolGrips/June%202013/DSC05273.jpg