ST JAMES RESTORATION
TWENTY NINE YEARS OF EXPERT FURNITURE REPAIR AND RESTORATION
CANE
​
The material that is used for seat weaving comes from the shiny outer skin of the rattan plant, a large jungle vine with thorns that help it to climb through trees. First introduced into Britain as a method of seat weaving in the latter 17th century. Initially the holes were widely spaced giving a broad weave, in time the weave became closer, evolving into the six strand hexagonal one we are familiar with today. Other weaves such as spider and patterns such as sunrise or medallion have also evolved, but the one thing they have in common is the element of skilled craftwork required. A skill that can be hard to find as such crafts become rarer.
​
Typical appearance of six strand hexagonal weave.
​
​
​
Examples of our cane work
​
RUSH
Rushwork is an ancient skill, examples having been found in Egyptian tombs and has been practiced in Britain since at least the 14th century. Though rush is a little bit of a misnomer, as the plant used is a member of the sedge family, not the rush family. In Britain it is the common Bulrush or Scirpus lacustris. During the 17th and 18th centuries it became popular on furniture and enjoyed another burst of popularity at the end of the 19th century, inspired in part by the Arts and Crafts movement. The craft is another heritage that has , unfortunately, suffered from a decline. We are proud to still be able to offer this service.
​
​
​
​
SEAGRASS
Seagrass comes mainly from China, there are a number of species belonging to the genus Halophila. after harvesting and processing it resembles a twisted rope. It can be woven in a number of patterns, traditionally either in a chequerboard pattern or the rush pattern, but many others are possible. It is a hard wearing and attractive material.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
There are other cords that are used on chairs as seating , such as danish cord etc. If you have a question or would like a price then please get in touch .
​
​
​
