Jack,

Everything here is correct. One other thing you might want to consider is switching to another light wood. Maple is notoriously difficult to work with in some areas. Planing is a particularly well know issue. I would imagine that cutting coves in a thin strip would present the same kinds of problems. A lot of patience and some of the techniques mentioned earlier should work. The other option would be to switch to a more workable light-colored wood, maybe aspen if you can get it. A nice piece of clear ash might work too. (no pun intended, honest!)

Regards,

Randy