RE: Bending balsa with ammonia water?
Ammonia also evaporates faster than water so the peice dries alittle faster. I usually find that over night is OK but 24 hours is best and makes sure it holds its shape. As far as holding in place till it dries, I found rubber bands to be best cause tape doesnt work if moisture is there. As far as swelling the wood, it does but when it dries it goes almost back to original size.