How to Patch a Cane Chair Seat: A DIY Guide

Holes in a cane chair seat can be an unsightly problem, but don’t let that deter you from snagging a great deal on a secondhand chair. With a little effort, you can patch those holes and restore your cane chair to its former glory.

Patching a Small Hole in a Machine-Woven Cane Seat

If the cane seat is machine-woven and the hole is relatively small, you may be able to fix it by gluing a piece of matching cane over the hole and tucking the edges under the existing cane. Here’s how:

Clean the cane seat thoroughly with a solution of white vinegar, warm water, and dish soap. Use a soft toothbrush to get into the crevices.
Rinse the seat with clean water and let it dry completely.
Trim any loose cane pieces around the hole.
Cut a piece of matching woven cane that’s about 3 inches larger than the hole.
Soak the cane patch in warm water for 15 minutes to soften it.
Apply wood glue to the back of the patch and position it over the hole, aligning the cane pattern.
Tuck the edges of the patch under the existing cane using a small awl or flat-head screwdriver.
Let the glue dry for 24 hours, then wipe away any excess.
If the patch is too light, you can stain it with a strong black tea to help it blend in.
Finish by waxing the entire seat to protect the surface.

Replacing a Damaged Cane Seat

For more extensive damage or a completely broken cane seat, you’ll need to replace the entire seat. This is a more involved process, but it’s still a doable DIY project. Check out our guide on [How to Easily Repair a Broken Cane Chair Seat] for step-by-step instructions.