Did you use distilled water? Minerals in undistilled water may cause discoloration although it could be minerals in the wood. I like tin foil to wrap, keeps more steam in, not had discoloration from it.
I prefer to bend from the waist first, as I usually see others do it, or from one end to the other, otherwise you are pulling the waist against the end clamps and stressing it but you got it done so good for you.
When deciding which end is which, I like the more interesting grain of the sides at the tail end where it is more visible than under the neck heel, matter of taste though.
I also like to precut the side profile before bending but lot's of people do it after. I find it a lot easier if the profile is available on your plan.
Good luck on your journey.
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