Amongst other plants and natural fibres, rattan cane has been used throughout the centuries to create supportive hand-woven panels for chairs and furniture. This traditional craft originates in Asia and since the 17th century has spread across Europe and in the UK, becoming one of the most popular seating types, due to its strength, lightness and durability.
This workshop will include an introduction to the history of chair caning and it will teach all the steps involved in the creation of the six-way standard pattern. If time allows, additional techniques such as localised mending of damaged panels could be shown. The weaving will be carried out using small practice frames with the aim of completing the process in one day.
The course will provide you with a strong understanding of the traditional weaving technique, which could be employed for restoration projects as well as conservation treatments of historical panels with the preservation of the original or existing plant material.
All materials and tools will be provided.
Weaving is very intensive on the hands/fingers so please be aware that caning might not be suitable for you if you have arthritis.
The minimum age for the course is 14 years.
The workshop starts at 10.30am. There will be breaks for tea/coffee/biscuits and at lunch time. We aim to finish at 5.30pm.
Please note that the Japanning Workshop event takes place on four days (10th, 11th, 14th and 15th September 2026) at the same location as the Caning Workshop.
