Rattan wrap for saya, possible repaint.

Hello. I recently got a Kaze and I was wanting to do a rattan wrap for the top quarter of my saya. I am going to get a cheapy deapy one to practice on first, so I need some information. Firstly, where can I get the proper rattan and what kind of rattan medium should I use? I've gone to sites that sell it and they give you a pretty bewildering array of the stuff. Second, should I sand down the lacquer before gluing? Also, if I wanted to repaint it first could I use a spray paint "primer, coat, coat, clear " process? Thank you for any information that you give.