hAND LACE CANE

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Hand lace cane became popular when Europe and America opened trade with the Far East in the late 1500's to early 1600’s. Hand lace cane is very commonly found on 19th century Victorian era chairs. Lace cane is actually very thin strands of bark cut from the rattan plant which grows to 40 feet in length. Individual strands of cane are hand woven in six (6) multiple layers and directions through small holes drilled in the wooden frame. Another two (2) weaving steps are used when the final binder cane is added to complete the process. The result is an open mesh appearance. 

About seven different widths of cane have been used for hand lace caning. The width of lace cane is determined by the distances between the holes in the wooden frame. Hand lace caning typically last 20 to 30 years with normal use. 

Cost is determined by the total number of holes drilled in the wooden frame to be woven. It usually ranges from $95 to 175 per seat and double that if both seat and back are rewoven. The current price is $2 per hole that is drilled in the wood frame. If the seat or the back has to be removed in order to cane the piece, there is an additional repair charge due the extra work involved.