What is the best way to remove the old seat on a pre-woven cane seat?
Pre-woven cane can also be called machined cane or cane webbing and is purchased in a sheet, already woven. Even though it is called “machined”, the sheets of cane are actually woven on a loom by a person, not an automated machine. Supplies needed: the new piece of cane mesh, spline to fit into the groove, wedges, rubber or wooden mallet, basket shear or strong scissor, wood glue, utility knife, instructions and a spline chisel to remove the old material. Removing the old seat can be difficult. First score each side of the spline (between the spline and the wood of the seat) with a sharp knife. This will break the seal of glue and/or varnish and help prevent the finish on the wood from chipping. Next use a spline chisel (see the print or on-line catalog) or other bent tip chisel to lift the old spline and cane out of the groove. To help loosen old glue, try placing vinegar on the trouble spots. Do not let the vinegar touch the finish of the chair, it may leave marks. Clean the groove c
