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Chair Caning Supplies and Caning Tools
 

Hand Cane

Woven Cane of many designs. Natural Cane, Caning Awls, Caning Tools, Caning Wedges, Caning Pegs. Genuine Rush and Fiber Rush. Instructional Videos on Hand Cane, Prewoven Cane, Rush Seats and Porch Weave. Many other caning tools and supplies.

Rattan is a natural fiber which grows in the tropical regions of Indonesia and China. The outer skin of the long climbing vine is called cane. It has a shiny surface, is extremely strong, and creates a beautiful cane chair seat that will endure for decades.

What is chair caning?

Chair caning is the fine art of hand-weaving a new chair seat, or back, using strands of cane to create a traditional pattern. A chair to be hand-caned is distinguished by the series of holes (frequently 80 holes) that run around the edge of the seat and go right through to the underside of the chair.

Can I do it?

Yes, it is not hard, just very slow work, and requires a lot of patience. Anyone can master the skill of caning, but it does not appeal to all.

Is my chair worth restoring?

People often ask this question. Only you can decide if the chair is worth repairing, basing your decision on useful life, dollar value, sentimental value and intended life to come. Antique chairs are, for the most part, worth repairing. It is essential to reproduce the original workmanship to preserve the inherent value. More modern chairs may be favorites that work well in your home or have a sentimental value to your family. One can make a judgment based on the price of repairs and the value of passing your heritage and heirlooms to your descendants.

Prewoven cane webbing (cane mesh) is used on seats with a groove around the edge. Cane webbing is woven on power looms from natural strand cane in the Orient into traditional and modern patterns. To determine the size cane webbing you will need, measure the opening from groove to groove at the widest parts, front to back and side to side. Add 2 inches to each of these dimensions to insure enough cane webbing to go into the groove and back out again. This extra length is needed for leverage so that the cane webbing will be pulled tight across the seat. Cane webbing may also be stapled onto frames which will be used decoratively. We do not recommend using staples for chair seats or installations where pressure will be applied.