Bang, bang, front wings.

[cardiffrob]

I've been making new front wings using stump shrinking instead of a shrinker machine.  What is the best method for flattening the pleats on the outside face?  If I whack it too much then if straightens out the curve.  If I'm too soft then the depressions stay in place.  Should I be using a small ball hammer from behind to push the depressions out before using the file?  1.5mm 5251 sheet.

I've had to make it in 3 foot lengths so I can weld the straight sections on later.  My English Wheel is mounted on the bench and anything longer hits the wall.

Thanks

Rob