Introduction
Cane weaving, also known as caning, is the art of weaving thin strips of natural or synthetic cane into a patterned surface. Cane weaving has been around for centuries and is used in the creation of numerous products, including chairs, tables, and even hats. One form of cane weaving that’s been gaining popularity in recent years is suspension cannage, which involves creating beautiful, intricate patterns with woven cane suspended from a frame.
History of Cane Weaving
Cane weaving has its origins in ancient Egypt, where baskets and other household items were made using woven reeds. Over time, cane weaving spread throughout the world and became an important craft in many cultures. In Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries, cane weaving was used extensively in the manufacture of furniture, such as chairs and chaises longues.
The Rise of Suspension Cannage
Suspension cannage is a recent innovation in cane weaving that has taken the art form to a whole new level. This style of weaving involves suspending pre-woven cane panels from frames to create intricate patterns and beautiful designs. The frames can be made from a variety of materials, including metal or wood, and can be customized to suit the needs of the weaver.
Benefits of Suspension Cannage
One of the main benefits of suspension cannage is that it allows weavers to create complex patterns and designs without having to invest in expensive equipment or tools. The process is also relatively fast, allowing weavers to create stunning pieces in a short amount of time. Additionally, suspension cannage provides an opportunity for weavers to experiment with different colors and textures of cane, creating truly unique pieces.
Techniques of Suspension Cannage
To create a piece of suspension cannage, the weaver first prepares a pre-woven panel, typically made from strips of cane that are woven together into a particular pattern. The panel is then suspended from a frame, such as a metal hoop or wooden frame. The weaver then begins to weave additional strips of cane through the suspended panel, adding layers of texture and color to the piece.
Tools and Materials
The tools and materials needed for suspension cannage are relatively simple. Weavers will need pre-woven panels of cane, additional strips of cane for weaving, a frame of some kind, and a variety of weaving tools, such as needles and pliers. Weavers can choose from a wide variety of cane materials, including natural cane, synthetic cane, and even paper or plastic strips.
Patterns and Designs
One of the defining features of suspension cannage is the intricate patterns and designs that can be created. Weavers can create everything from simple geometric patterns to complex, multi-layered designs. Some weavers incorporate other materials, such as metal wiring or fabric, into their work to add additional texture and color.
Applications of Suspension Cannage
Suspension cannage has numerous applications in both the art and design worlds. Some weavers create stunning pieces of art, such as wall hangings or sculptures, using suspension cannage techniques. Others use the technique to create unique pieces of furniture or home decor items, such as lampshades or room dividers.
