Wondering if others have had trouble doing the sheeting on the bow of the Creole Queen? (Specifically pieces called 1, 2 & 3)

Trying to put the curve AND twist in these three pieces (on each side) I find nearly impossible! The wood is so stiff and the curves so severe that if I glue one end down, let the glue cure, and then pull the other end in position, it will rip the first end out of the glue! I have tried wetting and steaming but neither relax the wood enough to take the shape. In a whole days work, I only have 2 of the 6 pieces on.

The only alternatives I see are to pick up some veneer from the lumber yard and laminate numerous layers or to use plastic sheeting that can be formed with heat.

Other suggestions (not including a match ) ?