I have used a bodkin or spoon shaped narrow tool that helps send the cane back up as you are weaving. What you are describing is double sided blind cane. Probably the most difficult weave there is. Quite a challenge. I wish you the best of luck and plenty of patience. Please feel free to contact me if I can help in any way. I am sending a picture of the tool we made at the Seat Weavers Guild gathering out of old umbrella staves. Cheers ! Weaverwoman@comcast.net

My honest opinion is that cane quality has gone downhill fast. Global warming, lack of quality control, sanctions, we all need a better alternative than plastic...