This is the review I dread writing. I've had two experiences with The Caning Shop. A few years ago one of our Henredon dining table chairs needed re-caning. I brought the chair in and was able to pick it up in 2-3 weeks' time. The quality was excellent and the price reasonable. In June of 2025 another Henredon chair needed re-caning. This time I was not so fortunate. I finally got the chair back. Again, the work was excellent and the price reasonable, but it took them SIX MONTHS to finish the job. In the interim yet another chair needed re-caning. I took it elsewhere. I hate to write this as everyone there is so nice. But I feel that future customers should be forewarned. read more

Obsessed with Jim. It would be really easy to take advantage of people who don't know the first thing about niche furniture repair and crafts (ie. almost everyone). Instead of charging a fortune, Jim actually taught me how to repair the paper cord on my used Danish chairs myself and only charged me for the materials used. He is a learned & encouraging teacher - grateful for his expertise and the opportunity to learn a new skill! read more

the caning shop - Jim modeling chair repair. - Art Supplies Near Me - Berkeley, California

I wanted to DIY my cabinet, and The Caning Shop is one of the few stores I found in the Bay Area that offers great quality cane materials. The store owner was very helpful, he gave me a lot of advice about how to stretch the cane and how to adhere it to my cabinet doors (see pic for finished result!). I'd highly recommend this shop! read more

the caning shop - Art Supplies Near Me - Berkeley, California

JIm prompt ly fixed my gourd cutter recuperating from shoulder surgery, A first class company and top notch people a client forever. Thank you so much. Bob wren bellingham ,wa... read more

Jim and the Caning Shop Team are kind, responsive, joyful and experts. We are so pleased with their craftsmanship and our antique wicker couch and restored rockers are absolutely beautiful and sturdy! My family is thrilled and grateful. Thank you!!! read more

Best and ONLY place in the Bay Area I know of to obtain your Pysanky egg dyeing tools and supplies! It's so fun to be in here, the owner is helpful and inspiring with all the other crafts too! Get in there, especially now, and support this beautiful Ukrainian traditional art form! read more

Great resource, lovely staff, fun place to just hang out! Jim has provided advice to me from the other side of the country - thank you.

Such a throwback! It's like stepping back into 1964. Super helpful staff, and really into their craft. Highly recommend!

The Caning Shop did such an incredible job repairing my beautiful chair. They made my chair even better than when I originally bought it! I originally bought the chair in 2011 and I'm thrilled they were able to restore it. It's one of my favorites.I highly recommend them :) read more

the caning shop - Wonderful repair job by The Caning Shop - Art Supplies Near Me - Berkeley, California

Been unsuccessful in my attempts to post a review on YELP but here is what I would say: Delighted to discover The Caning Shop at 926 Gilman Street, Berkeley, today. A fortuitous encounter, indeed. Stopped by just to make an inquiry about two dining room chairs in need of some repair and, in the blink of an eye, two remarkable gentlemen came out from their shop, took the chairs inside and returned them in less than 15 minutes with both chairs repaired to "as new" condition. No charge even before they discovered that my birthday is next week. Will certainly return for work on other furniture and, perhaps, to take advantage of their workshop and the regular classes they provide. Wonderful. -- David Nasatir *nasatir@gmail.com* read more

This place is awesome for art supplies like leather/gourd/egg dyes & many other incredibly interesting crafting projects. They've got a great supply of books on how to decorate gourds. Have you ever wanted a gourd shaver? I didn't until I saw it here. If you need a chair caned or want to learn how to basket weave, this is your place. It's a great little place that seems to be very secret & unrecognized. Not for long! If you think I'm just a crafting geek, check out their website http://www.caningshop.com. There's bound to be something that will appeal to you, too. You'll be drawn to the physical store. I just know you will. read more

After picking up a pair of quarter-sawn oak chairs from Freecycle that needed the caning replaced - I procrastinated for six months and then came here. For about $10, I got the materials for both seats. Then I procrastinated for 2 months. Finally, I sat my ass down and did it - do you know it took me less than an hour to do both seats and almost a year later - the chairs still look good? Caning is really not that difficult and procrastinating doesn't make it happen faster! The folks at this shop are super helpful in giving you information and demonstrating how they do what they do - so you can do it at home. I was told to phone if I had any questions or frustration but the process was so thoroughly explained to me in person and the informational sheet was so detailed that the whole project was a breeze! If you have problems - well, drop me a line - maybe you can hire me. ;) read more

The Caning Shop is a gem. Not only did they do a beautiful job of repairing and re-caning my 50 year old coffee table, they also offered to help me save money by showing me how to do it myself. About 10 years ago, I took a crafts class here that was delightful. I hope they will start offering these again. I only hope they will continue to stay in business as I fear the owner may retire soon. read more

They just do it right, the did an amazing job on some old original McGuire chairs, they looked better than new. I don't even mind traveling to this location from Burlingame to get the repairs done. read more

I used to live very close to this shop, but never knew it existed until I was sent here for supplies for a bookbinding class. As the other reviewers have noted, the Caning Shop offers supplies for basketry weaving, gourds, etc. But, you can also buy waxed linen thread here for bookbinding. They offer many colors. Yay! read more

Had a great experience working with Jim and was extremely happy with his professional and clever solution for our unique request. I have so much appreciation for the skilled trades like this especially after my attempts to do it myself. There is something to be said for a company that has been around over four decades with this level of customer service. read more

I had three dining room chairs that needed recaning and the Caning Shop was recommended by another local furniture repair business in Emeryville. I brought a chair in for an estimate and Susanne mentioned they also have open studio times if I was interested in learning how to re-cane the chairs myself. I took Susanne up on her offer and signed up for open studio time. The owner, Jim, and his staff were very helpful in showing me how to re-cane my chair. They basically show you what to do and then let you go at it. They allow you to use their tools, most of which I would not ever have known to use or purchase. If you have any questions, they are there to help. The only cost to me were for materials, and my own time. In the end, I re-caned all three dining room chairs which turned out wonderful. They also specialize in other things like gourds, basketry, painted tennis shoes!?, and supplies for all the above. If you get a chance, or have reason to drop in, go in for visit. Very cool place. This won't be my last time there. read more

The Caning Shop has been around since 1969. Jim Widess pretty much started the gourd art trend, as well as being one of the first people to bring back the art of chair caning (the wicker matting in old chairs). They do furniture restoration, wicker, caning, as well as specilaizing in gourd art, basketry, and several other craft-related areas. They are very kind, as well as being extremely knowledgable and having a broad breatdh of experience. read more

I've been here before to buy rattan, and it was cool - I remember liking this place. So I went there today for some linen thread, but two hours past their posted opening hour, there was no one there! Like, man, I know sometimes a person needs to step out for a minute, but maybe hang up a sign or something so I know to come back later? Their weekend hours suck, too, so if I can't get there today, I'm SOL. Oh well. read more

I love this store...I have no idea why anyone would go in, but if you ever get an itch to make a wicker chair, this is your place! Apparently, they offer classes for basket weaving and decorative gourds (check their website). I needed 10 bundles of chair cane for my architecture final project model and this was an answer to my prayers. I won't forget you Caning Shop! read more

Just the best shop owner ever! Stopped in to get some caning to repair a rocker and found an amazing store with one the most interesting owners ever! He knows his stuff, has the books published to show it, and was very willing to share his experience. He took a sincere interest in my simple chair seat replacement. I would recommend this business for all who need caning supplies or for those interested in learning a new hobby: caning, basket making, etc. Just a wonderful place to visit! read more

I ordered caning supplies 4 times. On the 3rd order, I had to call to find out when the order will be shipped. They said today, but they sat on the order for 2 weeks. Now , the 4th order, no one answers the phone. Waiting again for a unshipped order gong on the second week. read more

I went to The Caning Shop to look for Ukrainian Egg-making supplies for Easter. I had never made these eggs before, and asked for help. The man working there was SO nice and helpful, and completely exceeded my expectations. Not only did he talk me through the whole process, but he actually let me practice with his equipment so that I would get a feel for what I would be doing. It was a wonderful experience, and I will definitely go back for any egg-dying needs I have in the future. I give The Caning Shop and A+ for excellent service. read more

I picked up my two 50 year-old chairs and found that they had filled and painted over two large areas that had chipped off leaving large beige blotches of light wood showing through the red shiny lacquer. At no extra charge. Don't know how they matched the faded red color. read more

Really great! The owner was out of town so an older couple helped me out - so nice, so friendly! They offer caning ''classes'' occasionally, so check that out too if you're new to caning as I am. Really interesting place! read more

Awwwkwaaarddd. I am not totally familiar with the Cane shop, but I had a beautiful antique chair that needed some repair for an arm that was no longer able to bear weight. There was a mohogany piece that had been broken off the arm and we (my girlfriend and I) were excited about getting in sitting shape :) Well after we had a seemingly pleasant gentleman come out and help us, we proceeded to have a really awkward exchange, and it was dissapointing. I am African and my girlfriend is Jewish. I am not sure why, but he made the experience not worth doing business together. I will leave it at that. Thank You Yelp for inspiring fairness in treatment read more

I brought in a chair with a wicker seat that needed minor repair. The woman working there looked at it and wanted the man working there to look at it. He took the chair from her and started working on it. I thought all I was going to do was bring in the chair and have them write up a ticket, then I'd be back to pick it up -- apparently not. I was concerned how much this would be since he just took the chair and started fixing it, but a few minutes later it was done and they said no charge. Only four stars since I found the lack of communication a little odd, but nice people doing good work. read more

The 2 star explanation: "Meh. I've experienced better" sums up perfectly my experience with this place. Funny that the current 6 other *glowing* reviews all sound suspiciously like friends'. All glow, no real examples, except for excitement about caning. I got the feeling they preferred I not browse around (so I didn't). Selection not special, prices not competitive, service sketchy (an older woman, owner/manager type, may have reached that age where she doesn't try to hide her bitchiness; new employee, young guy was ok). I'm guessing the gourd part of their shop is dieing off due to online competition - many, many great gourd supplies online at other places, with better prices! read more

I needed the cane in one of my kitchen chair backs replaced. I called and talked to Susanne on the phone. She was very nice and explained that they could do it for me for $120 or I could do it myself (with their help and tools) in their "Open Studio" for $40 plus the cost of materials(which was only $16). I decided to give it a try and it was a great experience. I had an expert teacher who explained things very well and gave me all the help I needed (which was a lot), taught me how to use all the tools, and encouraged me along the way. I left there after a few hours with a beautifully re-caned chair. Everyone there was so nice and I will definitely recommend this business. They also have all types of baskets and gourds and supplies for doing those crafts. read more

If you need Cane for seats or panels, the Caning shop is able - in every way to supply your need, from a simple chair, to an ornate panel, they can fill the bill, or sell you everything you need to do it yourself. Sometimes, that is the difference between throwing a really nice piece of furniture in the dumpster, and saving it. I had a nice outdoor good weather set that was becoming ragtag after the kids jumped on it a few too many times with their friends. After they grew older, I took them in, and got them back in like new condition. I'm glad, because the charm of the 1920's pieces was spiffier than replacements of tube frame style. And they are very friendly and helpful. read more

I took a basket weaving class at the Caning Shop yesterday--I had never made a basket before. Jim was incredibly patient with us and let us stay for the entire afternoon. I had never made anything like this with my hands before and it was amazing to be taught the craft. This is such a great place! read more

Best place to get angelus paint customer service was on point as well not only that but it has a lot of things to look at as well great little shop read more

I am rocking my baby in the rocking chair my great grandmother re-caned for my mum when she was pregnant with me. Jim, from the caning shop, 40 years later, re-caned the same chair for me and my new baby girl. I can't say enough about the quality of work, and personalized service. So glad I found this place! read more

I shopped at the Caning shop since I needed some supplies to dye eggs with my younger cousins for easter. I prefer to buy locally, so I searched online for Ukrainian egg painting tools, found this shop and drove up there to get the supplies. The lady who helped me was very knowledgeable and friendly. I love supporting local businesses, especially ones with good customer service. read more

My father purchased an antique chair for my daughter that needed to be re-cained. Shortly after, he died unexpectedly:( I put off having the chair fixed; I was worried that it might get damaged/lost. I took it to the shop and shared my story with the gentleman. He put me at ease and was very kind. I was very impressed with the workmanship. Plus, they had another similar chair that I picked up for baby sis...now we have a set. Beautiful! read more

My husband and I drove from Marin County to Berkeley to see if anything could be done for an American Indian basket made by my great great grandmother that was damaged by the movers during our move to NorCal. We had to go after my husband got off of work, and Jim stayed a little late to see if anything could be done for it. Jim is a very nice guy (and I think he has a resemblance to Robert DeNiro!) and explained some of the history behind my basket as well as what it was made from. I could tell he has a true love for the art of basket weaving and knows his stuff. They offer classes there, which I would love to take, seeing how beautiful some of the handmade baskets are, but we live too far. I wouldn't hesitate to go for any of my caning needs. :) read more

my review is not a good one because our experience was nothing but the worst anyone can imagine possible. To begin with a caning job that he promised would take 2 months because he was too busy took 6 months. Every time we called him he said it will be ready in couple of weeks and finally after four months he admitted that he had not even started on it because he had a bigger job to attend. Anyway, we tried to be patient with him and finally when he was ready to deliver he says wait a minute you might not be happy with the charges. Initially, he had told me that it would be around four hundred dollars and will not exceed $500. When I asked what do you mean? He said that it is going to be $790 claiming that I had not been specific enough with the repairs needed on the chair. My husband who is a mediator intervened and they made an agreement and he finally delivered the chair to be nice to us. At the delivery, we found out that he hadn't repaired the seat of the chair. When he was asked about that, he said you never mentioned the seat, if you had that would have been another $1500. I really don't understand where this man Jim Widess (the owner) is coming from - maybe he is having a hard time in his personal life but he certainly did not act professionally in our case and I would not recommend him to my worst enemy. He has apparently grandiose ideas about himself and his craft but I think he needs to be upfront about his pricing and timing requirements before taking a job on. Be careful, if you are considering giving him a job - his work was good but boy what a price he exacts for his skill which I imagine he believes is a rare find. read more

This place is an amazing labor of love! We had a chair with a seat that needed to be recaned and I can't begin to tell you how happy I am with the work, how absolutely packed and fascinating the shop is (if you're even remotely interested in basketry, gourds, or cultural anthropology, find an excuse to go!), and how much my husband and I appreciated their good energy and great customer service. Reasonable prices, excellent work, and a real treat to visit. Highly recommend! read more

Whatever else they may do, (hats...gourds...) the caning shop is most importantly a shop for caning. They refurbished and re-caned 4 old Danish modern chairs and the work was flawless. There's no one else in the area who can do what they do. Friendly and welcoming, yes, but most importantly knowledgeable and professional. read more

Great service and craftsmanship! I have a chair from Bali that had a whole in the caning and The Caning Shop did a great job repairing it. Not only did they recommend the cheaper option (sheet caning vs. hand caning), they offered to stain it to match the original color. Although they said it would take 2 1/2 weeks, it only took them a little over a week. My chair looks as gorgeous as it did when I first got it. read more