How to Install Caning on Chair Seats

Remove the seat from the existing chair by taking out any screws holding it in place. Then, use a router to remove any existing caning that is part of the chair. Be sure not to damage the wood on the existing frame of the chair.

Soak a sheet of rattan webbing in a bath of warm water for at least 20 minutes and then remove it. Drape it over the chair’s seat so that the shiny side is facing towards you. Begin pushing the webbing into the groove with your wooden wedge, working your way around the perimeter of the chair.

Cut off the excess webbing with a utility knife. The webbing should not extend more than a few millimeters past the edge of the groove. Be very careful when removing the webbing so that you don’t damage the webbing or cut yourself in the process.

Insert a thin line of PVA glue into the groove and let it dry for about five minutes.

Insert one end of your caning spline into the groove and hammer it in place. Work your way around the perimeter of the chair, hammering in the caning spline as you go. When you reach a corner, apply a bit of water with a damp cloth to make the spline more flexible. Once you have reached your starting point, cut the spline and hammer the end into place.

Wipe off any excess glue from the chair seat and allow the seat caning to dry naturally for at least 24 hours. Once dry, the chair seat can be re-assembled to the rest of the chair’s frame.