Cane is the outer bark of the rattan palm plant which grows in various parts of Asia including Malaysia, and the Philippines.  This plant can grow up to 200 feet in height until it crashes down from its’ own weight.  Like a vine, it then climbs along the jungle floor and trees as it continues to grow to lengths of 300 feet or more.

How do I care for my cane furniture?

Cane likes to be able to absorb moisture from the air.  To prevent cane from drying out and becoming brittle, avoid placing cane furniture near heaters, or in particularly dry rooms.

Cane has a natural capacity to stretch and provides that comforting ‘give’ with each sitting.  Over time, cane can stretch beyond its’ capacity and eventually wear against the inside of the chair frame or begin to break from the centre.  To make cane last for years, it needs to be moistened.  Absorbing moisture can also re-tighten cane, especially if it’s a fairly new seat.  Here is how:  Simply dab and wipe the underside of the cane seat (where it is not protected by the glossy bark), with a lightly dampened cloth, and let it dry thoroughly before sitting.  Repeat once a month.  

Cane seats work best under evenly distributed weight.  Avoid concentrated weight such as kneeling or using cane seats as a step stool.  Larger seats (14 inches or greater in diameter), may benefit from a seat cushion or pad as it will further distribute weight evenly and take direct pressure away from the seat.

What is the difference between rattan and bamboo?

Bamboo and rattan are very similar in appearance.  What distinguishes one from the other is that bamboo is hollow in the centre and rattan is solid throughout.  The rattan palm plant is a main source of material for woven furniture.  The outer bark is the source for cane material, the inner bark is used for splint material, and the inner core is the source of reed materials used in wicker furniture construction.   

What is Lloyd’s loom?

Invented in 1917, Lloyd’s loom is a type of furniture constructed by a mechanized loom which produces sheets of woven material made of very thin strands of paper rush which is then draped over a solid frame to make chairs, lamps, couches, tea carts, doll buggies, tables, and planters just to name a few. 

What can I do to prolong the life of my fibre rush seat?

Ever wonder why your rush seat has been stuffed with horse hair, hay or layers of cardboard?  Stuffing rush seats gives the seat some height so that over time, the centre of the seat doesn’t sink in as it might without any padding at all.  It also gives rush seats a pleasant shape, while making them look inviting to sit on. 

It is also a good idea to coat fibre rush seats once a year with a thin coat of:  3 parts alcohol (methyl hydrate), mixed with 1 part shellac.  Both are available at hardware stores.  The shellac seals the fibre rush seat, and prevents damage from spills and dirt, while the alcohol allows the shellac to dry more quickly and allow the mixture to penetrate the fibre rush thoroughly.  An inexpensive bristle brush will do the trick.

Have a question or comment to add?  Just call, or send us an e-mail.  All inquiries and comments are gladly welcome.  Would you like to be reminded of when to moisten, seal, or oil your special piece of furniture?  Send in a request by e-mail or phone, and we will remind you of when it is time to care for your pieces, because sometimes things just get busy!