Weaving a new seat for a cane chair is a big job but there is a short cut using pre-woven (pressed) cane which needs no weaving. It is replaced in one piece by inserting and gluing it into a groove round the opening in the chair seat. A thin strip of reed called a spline fits over the groove, holding the cane in place. To work out how much webbing you need, measure the seat width and length from groove to groove plus-2cm extra all round. The spline is the length of the old spline or the groove, but buy 8cm extra to be safe.

First remove the old spline and web and clean all particles out of the groove with chisels. Place the new webbing over the seat and make sure weaving is parallel to sides and front of chair. Hold web in place with one hand and trim around it with scissors to size and shape. For larger jobs it may be necessary to make a paper template. Make sure template allows the 2cm extra all round.

To cut spline to size, fit loosely into groove, pressing with your fingers. Allow 2cm overlap and cut off any extra. For square seat, insert spline in groove, mark at corners and cut, bevelling the ends of adjoining pieces so corners will be mitred.

Soak the spline in tepid water for 2 minutes, wrap it in a towel and set aside.

Mix 11/2 tablespoons of glycerine for each cup of water until you have enough to submerge the cane webbing fully. Soak until pliable (but not more than 20 minutes).

Spread a little water-soluble glue into the groove. Place damp cane over the opening with weaving lines parallel to the edges. Use a mallet to drive two hardwood wedges into the groove - one at the back of the seat, another at the front. Drive 2 more into the centre of each side. Leave those wedges in place while you use more wedges to push webbing into the groove all round the seat. Leave corners until last on square seats. When all cane ends are inserted in groove, cut off excess cane slightly below the top of the groove with a chisel or sharp knife. With a scrap of cane, spread another thin layer of glue into the groove. Starting at the centre back (or other inconspicuous spot) push spline loosely into the groove with your fingers. Tap down into the groove with the flat side of a hardwood wedge and mallet. Cut off any excess just before the final section is tapped into place. Before pressing adjoining pieces of spline into a groove with squared corners, insert loosely to ensure corners are properly mitred then tap into place as described.