Wicker perhaps does not as popular as other furniture such as wood or solid wood, because mostly people still select wood as their main material for home furnishing. However, wicker furniture is still on demand, especially in world market. Some people consider the furniture as distinctive pieces. Wicker is popular also for patio or outdoors selection, thus it gives unique and warm ambiance on it. Literally, the word “wicker” refers to a method by weaving the material of furniture, which is varied in kinds.
Most popular material for wicker is rattan. Rattan is a non-wood material, which is mostly found in the rain forest in South-East Asia. Rattan is very hollow, which is very different from other non-wood product like bamboo. Either bamboo or wood is solid material, so both bamboo and wood are not suitable to use as wicker material. Why rattan is popular made as wicker? As mentioned before, rattan is easy to work with, especially to be woven. Rattan is simple curved and formed. It can be steamed and bent into place. When it is starting to be cooled, the material start to harden and better pieces are woven into the frame.
Each material used in this world should have either advantages or disadvantages. Rattan furniture is used to be old-fashioned and lack of interest. Rattan, however, has through its development like other furniture. Today rattan furniture is available in various styles and design to accomplish all market demands. Styles and designs are reasons why more people love rattan and wicker both for indoors and outdoors. Other important reason is that rattan is lightweight and it easy to mix and match with other items.
Besides its advantages, there are also disadvantages. As mentioned before that rattan is not solid material, therefore it has lower durability compare to wood. If you plan to use as outdoors, you need extra protection and treatments to keep them in good condition. Nevertheless, it is not a reason for not using wicker furniture to decorate your home living spaces.