Chess. I'm pretty sure you could have greatly improve those curves with a pencil and spokeshave. Power tools are great, but never overlook the utility of a good and inexpensive hand tool.
I did actually use a small planer for taking off rough cuts and sanded down some of the edging from there but it is still plywood and the more you 'pick' at it on the long edge, the more chewed it can get too. I had to rush the piece somewhat because of scheduling and impending cold weather (i only had the outdoors to do the urethane finishing).
I'm far happier with the refinishing job on the stair railings and balusters.
