: Chris,

: Have you been using a backing strap? How long did you steam it for?

i finnaly get to contribute.

i am new to boats, but ive done a few chairs and a backing strap helps. steaam for a good long time 20 min and bend it quick. even 45 seconds is to long in the air. whear gloves so you dont bur yourself and use a strap.

a wratchet strap from depot or a leather belt will work. and practice.

also since you milled the "bending oak" did you change the grain? its possible they call it bending oak because the grain is already orientated correctly. if you mill it, that can change.

just use a piec you pick out of the lumber yard. most of the books have a info section on the grain orientation for flat and quarter sawn lumber. and how to mill them.

have fun