Anyone know of a way to help un-warp plywood? I have a small panel that has a slight bow. I am worried about using the piece as a side wall in a tv stand build.

I seem to have found the one section of the sheet that had some stresses to let go because none of the other panels cut have a warping issue.

I've heard of people spraying the inside of the warp with water, then putting it outside in the sun with cinder blocks on it (wet side down). Then halfway through the drying process, bring it inside into finish drying in the cool temperatures. Once it's dry, use it as quickly as possible.

Keep in mind, I've never done this and I'm a little skeptical, but it's worth a try.

[This message has been edited by Throwout (edited 1/3/2013 8:57a).]

Okay, I'll bite. Isn't the only acceptable answer to buy a replacement piece of plywood?

plywood with veneered walnut on it ain't cheap. I was hoping to avoid dropping more $$$ on plywood. Solid wood I wounldn't but ply has a breaking point in my mind.

how thick? and how big of a section are we talking?

some specifics might help you get an better answer.

It is a small 21" by 21" piece that is 3/4" thick. It will be an outside wall for the short entertainment center.

You can try kerf cutting the back of it if it is hidden or using steam. I've seen a wall paper steamer used to bend wood in a radius but not sure how it will work trying to bend it straight.

how crappy is this plywood?

A 3/4in thick piece of decent plywood that is less than 21in on a side, should not warp enough to be noticeable.

kerf reliefs on the hidden side is the way to go I think.

is there any framing to it or does the ply serve a structural roll too?

I.e. is it just a cosmetic pannel or more supportive in some way?

It is supportive. It is one of two outside walls.

Relief kerfs are a no go. It will be visable on both sides.

The sheet wasn't bought at a box store. I did get it from a hardwood dealer. So I expect it to be better quality. It was cut from a much large piece, so releasing tension of the entire sheet can cause "good" plywood to move some.

I may put the bow side facing the inside and use the shelves as a counter force to push the bow back out. In the long run I don't think it will be noticable. The lady friend couldn't see what I could, so I maybe in the clear.