Background

• Some chair styles, typically those with a wooden frame, are created in a design style known as caning. This process involves removing the softer, outer skin from the rattan plant to weave it and produce the backs of chairs or seats. The caning has a similar appearance to some wicker designs; in fact, wicker is the result of the inner material of the rattan plant. However, caning uses the more pliable reeds and the result is a thinner fabric-like material with a smaller weave. Nevertheless, the rugged nature of the rattan skin makes it especially strong when woven.
  
  

Methodology

• Manufacturers that produce chairs with caning may use manually or machine automated processes. The former involves attaching the caning to the frame of the chair either by glue or by threading the caning reeds through the frame itself. Cyrus Wakefield invented machine caning in the late 1800s, and this method produces caning material more quickly than hand weaving. Machines are capable of producing large rolls of cane in a process similar to fabric production. The roll is then pressed into its intended shape and secured with a reed or other spline in a similar process to creating a screen window. Machined cane is sometimes known as pressed cane for this reason.
  
  

Patterns

• Common patterns for caned chairs include octagonal or hexagonal mesh styles. This style uses a combination of vertical, horizontal and diagonal weaving. Caning can also take the shape of a more traditional, straight weave. For example, the Yorkville Caning company offers a medium and fine close weave in this style. Herringbone patterns are common for chair seats, and the finished product gives an appearance of diagonal bars on multiple layers because of the way that the caning is weaved. Other patterns include a tight or loose net weave, diamond shaped caning and the floral-inspired daisy and buttons motif.
  
  

Variations

• Cane producers can vary many of the basic patterns simply by increasing or decreasing the size of the weave, which is the case with the various sizes of mesh caning as well as flat, straight weaves. In addition to this, those who especially enjoy caning may design their own caning styles and possibly enter them into competitions. Handcrafted designs offer the benefit of creating functional caning patterns that are individual and stylish.