fixing a wooden sword sheath

[Strepto]

Hi,

My girlfriend just bought a taichi saber at a discount price because the wooden sheath is slightly curved. What would be the best way to straighten that wooden sheath? I thought of using steam to soften the wood then apply weight on the sheath to remove the curve.

Would that work?

Anyone have a better idea?

Thanks for the help!

 

[uncouth]

Steaming and straightening would probably work, just make sure you keep it clamped, weighted, etc. long enough to dry completely, otherwise it may just warp again. The only thing I'd worry about is if it is made of two halves glued together the heat and steam may cause the adhesive to fail. Although that may actually make your job easier, steam and straighten the individual pieces, then reglue them.