Materials & Textiles
Cane
Cane refers to woven webbing made from the outer bark of rattan palm, traditionally used for chair seats and backs but now appearing throughout furniture design as decorative panels and accents. This centuries-old craft creates a distinctive geometric pattern—typically hexagonal or octagonal—that is both visually elegant and surprisingly durable.
The cane weaving tradition reached its height during the 17th and 18th centuries in European furniture making, where caned chairs became symbols of refined taste. After a period of decline, cane has experienced a significant revival in contemporary design, appearing in headboards, cabinet doors, lighting fixtures, and room dividers. Its ability to add texture while maintaining visual lightness makes cane particularly valuable in modern interiors.
Key Characteristics
- ✓Woven from rattan bark strips
- ✓Distinctive hexagonal or octagonal pattern
- ✓Semi-transparent, allows light and air
- ✓Surprisingly strong and resilient
- ✓Creates visual lightness
- ✓Traditional and contemporary appeal
Types & Variations
Hand-woven cane (individual strands, most traditional)
Pre-woven cane webbing (sheet form, easier installation)
Close weave (smaller pattern, more formal)
Open weave (larger pattern, casual feel)
Colored or stained cane
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Cane furniture works beautifully in living rooms as accent chairs, in bedrooms as headboards, and in dining rooms paired with upholstered seating for contrast. The visual transparency of cane makes it excellent for small spaces where solid furniture might feel heavy.
💡 Pro Tip
When purchasing cane furniture, examine the weave carefully—consistent tension and pattern alignment indicate quality workmanship. Hand-woven cane with holes drilled in the frame is more durable and repairable than pre-woven webbing attached with splines.