How to Remove Caning

Run the edge of a utility knife along the outer and inner sides of the cane chair spline to loosen any varnish or paint that may be on it. Cut through the spline, but do not cut into the wood. As you cut on the inner side of the spline, you cut away the old cane material on the chair’s seat.

Insert the tip of a caning chisel into the spline where the spline joins itself on the back side of the seat. If the spline is in the chair in four pieces, with the breaks in the corners, insert the chisel midway between corners so you don’t damage the corner grooves.

Tap the chisel gently with a hammer to help pull the spline loose. Work your way around the spline groove pulling out the spline as you go. The spline may all come out in one piece, but if it is old or damaged, expect it to come out in numerous pieces.

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water. Put them into a squeeze bottle with a small tip. Direct the water and vinegar mixture along the spline. Allow the liquid to soak into to the groove to loosen the old glue holding the spline in place for about 20 minutes. Use the chisel to pry out the spline that remains in the groove.

Sand the groove lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any remnants of glue and to take off any rough edges of wood that might cause damage to the new cane. Sand the inside opening of the chair as well to prevent damage to the cane as you sit in the chair.