Furniture and Furnishings - table repair

I have a dining table made of cherry that was stored near a furnace over the winter and the planks of the table top have all cupped. I understand that steam and a press are what will straighten the planks but I have no idea how accomplish this. Help!

While steam isn't absolutely necessary, it helps. The straightening can be done in a controlled atmosphere (humidty wise).

This procedure does require a number of things you may not want to attempt - such as taking the top completely apart, i.e. separating it into its individual boards.

Oh, you have to strip the table, too.

FYI - the table warped because the underside wasn't sealed - water vapor could enter the boards form underneath, but not the top, hence the cupping.

If you REALLY want to try this yourself, come on back and I'll give you some more details and pointers.

Thanks for responding to my question. Yes, I am interested in learning how to straighten out the planks. I think I have the idea now and I would like to have the specific details. If it requires expensive equipment I may chooose to pass but as of now I will keep working on it.