How to Cane a Chair Bottom

Remove the seat from the chair frame. If the seat does not simply pull up and out of the frame, it is likely secured with screws. Use the appropriate-sized screwdriver to remove the screws, freeing the seat. Use a router saw to take out any existing webbing from the seat of the chair. To use a router, put on your protective mask and eye-wear. Cut around the perimeter of the existing webbing to remove it, making sure the blade of the router is facing toward the cut. Be careful not to damage the seat of the chair when using the saw.

Soak the sheet of rattan webbing in warm water for at least 20 minutes. After the allotted time, remove the sheet and place it over the seat with the glossy side up. Align the sheet so the horizontal and vertical lines match the seat frame.

Push the rattan webbing into the groove of the seat using a wooden wedge. Work your way around the perimeter of the seat until the rattan webbing has been entirely secured.

Cut off the excess webbing so it is no longer than a few millimeters below the outer edge of the groove in the seat. Use your utility knife to trim off the excess.

Pour PVA glue into the groove and then take a five-minute break to let the glue settle.

Insert the end of your caning spline into the groove and use a hammer to gently tap it into the groove. Work your way along the perimeter of the chair. When you reach the corners, apply a bit of water to the spline to make it more flexible -- use just enough water to slightly dampen the spline with a damp cloth or sponge. When you reach your starting point, cut the end of the spline with your utility knife and hammer the end into the groove.

Wipe off any excess PVA glue with a damp cloth, and leave the seat to dry naturally. When it is dry, you can reassemble the chair either by pushing the seat back in place or screwing the seat back on, depending on how it was taken apart.