Expert: Mark H. Miller - 11/6/2009

Question
Can I replace caning with upholstered seats?  I was thinking I could take off the caning, figure out the best base (plywood?), add padding and fabric and screw new seats on.  But maybe this is not realistic?  Would I cut the plywood to accommodate the corners where the legs join the seat?  or place the new seat over those corners?  thank you!

Answer
Hello Sara,

Actually you are right on the mark,  usually the plywood seat is cut so that it is at least a little bigger than the cane area,  use 1/4 plywood.  I assume when you talk about the corners you mean the front legs, do not cover those posts otherwise the new seat will not lay flat. Over the plywood place up to 1 inch thick foam and a layer of batting then the fabric.  Then as you suggest screw the new seats in place through the holes that now hold the cane.  That way if the decision is ever made to go back to cane you can do so.  

Good luck,  please don't hesitate to contact me if you need further pointers.

Mark Miller.