Steaming?

[Brian Knop]

I need to bend some walnut for the top cover of a tall clock I am making. 10” W X 22”L X ¼” thick. I know that’s not real thick but still it will take quite a bit of pressure to bend and hold in place. I would like to steam it. Question is could I use something like a tea pot, with the part in a plastic bag or should I make a steam box?

[Mac Houtz]

You need to construct a steambox. There are various plans and designs available online that are easy enough to build and operate. I don't know how much bend you are planning on putting into the piece, but I would not think the method you describe would be practical.

[Steve Rozmiarek]

Brian, have you seen the Michael Fortune story on hot pipe bending in the latest Fine Woodworking? I wonder if that tecnique might work easier in your case?