The Cane Comeback

Trends can come and go quickly and that’s not a recent phenomenon. What started as a classic weaving technique in furniture (majorly chairs) in colonial interiors now adorns spaces in more than just one way.

 Caning or Cane Webbing and Rattan Weaving in some areas, both use the same techniques with different materials based on the plant they are sourced from. Cane refers to the stem of Bamboo or Sugarcane and  Rattan is a naturally growing vine like species that is native to tropical regions of Australia, Asia, and Africa. This technique has a lot of name(s) and game. Caning  involves weaving dried out stems from the plant into different patterns and is one of the most ancient techniques of building new chairs or repairing old ones, yet classically understated. though its first use dates back to ancient Egypt, it gained popularity during the Victorian height of the British Empire and has now made a comeback through beds, partitions, lighting and even boots. Yeah, you read that right, boots, Gucci boots to be precise.

Master Pieces in the world of Caning.

Some common patterns of weaving in cane or rattan.

This past year has seen a tremendous growth in how this lightweight weaving technique is being used in an interior setting. Some designers are even building concepts around this technique.  Available in various geometric patterns and creamy neutral tones, this material can add texture to a setup which can otherwise feel flat.  The technique has so caught on that now, we also have synthetic substitutes available in the market that are lighter on the pocket.

Airy and natural, Cane web complements environmentally conscious interior design and architecture. It combines simplicity with high aesthetic appeal. It’s versatility and neutral tones make it easy to pair with almost any color and that’s what makes it an interesting choice for upcoming interiors. When styled in a room, it almost acts as a piece of art with all its old world charm. 

Here are some delicious caning applications that inspired me enough to make this my current favorite material and also start a blog.

Gallery of Oxalis Restaurant by  Sò Studio

You didn’t think i’d forget the gucci boots, did you?

Here’s a cane inspired Mood Board made by yours truly.