First, the newer versions of CC do a wonderful job of cutting inlays and plugs. Done 2 so far and they are perfect, both the plug and the project. Well done!!!
Now, I’m looking for an easier solution to glue the plug into the board and clamping it down. Last time I strung long, thinner boards on the top and bottom of the project and applied pressure with some wood clamps. This set up was difficult to do without a third hand, but it somewhat worked. Ended up slightly warping the project slightly by applying too much pressure I think, and having the clamps too far out. The project was a charcuterie board that started out a little over 3/4". Was able to work the warp out, but don’t want to repeat this again.
I prefer Klemmsia style cam clamps but Bessy type clamps are also good for inlay or laminates. You get tactile feedback that yes its pressed in all the way no need to overtighten. I make a caul from 1/2" MDF or preferably plywood slightly larger then the plug then sandwich the inlay between that and the board. Any clamp with a flat bottom is good because you can support the work at 3 corners then add more clamps if needed without needing an extra hand.
Packing tape or some other non-permeable tape on the caul prevents gluing it to the board.
Reasons you could get a warp.
If the plug is too tight and forced in too hard a hump in the middle top surface can occur. Glue has a thickness. Too much glue and the plug won’t press in nearly as far as it did dry. The plug can’t be too tight beforehand…
Too much clamping force. This is one reason I don’t like the presses. I’ve seen people crank the handles like they’re performing a Janka test then wonder why their piece isn’t flat anymore.