Have you ever wondered what the difference between
rattan furniture and wicker furniture is? If you have, I can explain
the differences and some of the common misconceptions about these
wonderful natural furnishings.
Many people incorrectly believe
that rattan and wicker are one in the same. This couldn't be further
from the truth. In fact, they aren't even in the same category. Let's
take a look at how these two popular, yet very different, arts come
together to provide a unique, elegant atmosphere in the home.
First
let's get some facts about rattan. Rattan is a vine that grows in the
tropical forests of the Far East. Usually, it grows in a pole shape
with a diameter of about 1-3 inches. Rattan can grow up to hundreds of
feet in length. It is also one of nature's strongest woods. Rattan cane
has a solid core, unlike bamboo pole, making it much more durable and
harder to break. Rattan will not warp and is ideal for making
furniture. After being cut into smaller sections, the canes are then
molded into shape to form the frames for various furniture items. Peel,
the outer skin of the rattan pole, is traditionally used to wrap the
furniture joints.
Wicker, on the other hand, refers to items made
from any number of natural materials, including rattan core, reed,
rush, and willow. When wet, these natural materials are pliable enough
to be woven, creating the unique wicker-weaved designs we see in wicker
furniture. In fact, most rattan furniture is created with wicker weaved
on top of the rattan core frame. Rattan and wicker are wonderful
natural products, each piece having its own unique set of qualities. No
two pieces are ever completely the same.
Many people love the
aesthetic qualities of this furniture. A great room in your home
furnished with rattan can feel like a retreat to a secluded island
resort after a long day at the office. Who wouldn't want to come home
to that? Another common misconception is that wicker and rattan
furniture is strictly for outdoor or patio use. Definitely not so.
Rattan furniture comes in living room sets, dining room sets, bedrooms,
office furniture and much more.
Many times it is hard to find
these types of furnishings locally. And, often, even if you can find
them, it is usually a pretty limited selection of items. It's easy to
find these great natural furnishings online. Just search the web and
you will find great websites that offer authentic rattan and wicker
furniture. Happy hunting!
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