Rather than using battens two metres long, think about having four short
lengths each having (say) grooves for six or seven canes. Clamp up and tie
the canes using two jig lengths then place other jig lengths so that the
sixth or seventh cane is in its first groove. Add more canes, clamp up the
second jig lengths and remove the first two etc. etc. etc.

The above would make it easier to use the kitchen table to work on!!!

Geoff