Ed
First off, if the spline comes out without effort, that's the best way. Otherwise you want to cut through the old spline so you can get it out with a minimum of damage to the piece of furniture.
I use a cutout tool like this
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...unction=Search
Get a 1/8" spiral carbide bit (I like using the 1/8" shank bits). I've gotten them through Grizzly, no complaints there.
First take an exacto knife to cut along both sides of the spline to seperate it from the wooden frame.
I start off with the bit set about 1/8"-3/16" exposure. Start in one corner and carefully control the tool as it has a tendency to pull if you're not careful. Once you're gotten it around, use a chisel and peel some of the spline out. Lower the bit and go around again, cutting deeper till you cut through the old spline. Once it's cut through, if it comes out easy, so much the better. If it doesn't pour a little white vinegar into the slot you've cut and let it soak a while. It will loosen up the old glue. Take an exacto knife and cut an X from corner to corner through the old cane. Peel the old cane back and it will usually come out fairly easy.
I use a sharp chisel, a commercial spline removing tool and another one I made specifically for the work I do. I have used this in redoing probably 200+ cane panels over the last few years and as the saying goes: "It works for me".
You need to use care with the cutout tool. It wants to pull to the side if you're not careful. Working counter clockwise is best, if you slip, it
cuts to the inside of the spline groove. I brace it carefully with one finger hooked over the edge of the piece. You have to determine your own speed, too slow and it can burn (as in smoldering) and too fast or deep and you break the bit.
Then it's a matter of putting in the new cane, staining and sealing it and you're done, but that's another story.
By the way, is you need guidance in how to install the new cane, shoot me an email.
Pauol