RE: How to bend 1/4 X 1/2 balsa
Yes several.
1) Use laminations such as 4pcs of 1/8X1/2 lengths laminated (Or 8 pcs of 1/8 X 1/4)in the shape you need.
2) Build a steaming fixture
3) Soak for several hours in an ammonia/water bath, preferably hot.
4) At the bend (If only a small , single bend.) splice two pieces together end to end. (Not a butt joint but with an 8 to 1 or 12 to 1 ratio.)
In my opinion the laminations are easiest if you don't have a steaming fixture.
Good Luck
Mark