Wicker Vs. Rattan

Materials

• Rattan is made from one of the many climbing palm tree varieties that are native to Asia. Wicker may be made from a number of materials such as bamboo, reed, rushes or willow.

Strength

• Rattan is made from cane that is extremely durable and will not warp even under the harshest conditions. The durability of wicker largely depends on the material that it is constructed from, but reed, rush and willow are often soaked until pliable, which makes them somewhat less durable.

Characteristics

• Rattan is a solid cane substance that can be up to three inches in diameter. Bamboo, which is commonly used for wicker, is a hollow cane that cannot be carved easily as rattan.

Construction

• Rattan and wicker are often used concurrently in patio furniture. Rattan is often used for the frame of the chair or ottoman, with wicker being used to construct the back and seating portions.

Origin

• The best species of rattan for furniture construction comes from Indonesia, while wicker materials may be found worldwide. Chinese workmen are highly renowned for their wicker workmanship.