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bamboo, bookcase, Décor, design, furnishings, furniture, hardwood, leather, loveseat, outdoor, patio, rattan, set, sofa, style, table, wicker, woven
When it comes to cane furniture, it is quite easy to confuse two common terms: rattan and wicker. A native to the rain forest, rattan is essentially a solid wooden vine that grows in a long, slender stem. One of the fastest growing plants on Earth, bamboo is incredibly diverse, growing in chilly mountains as well as sunny tropics. Also, rattan is solid with a core, whereas bamboo is hollow. Wicker, however, is the process of weaving materials like rattan and bamboo into furniture and décor.
Rattan is one of the strongest wooden materials on the market. The grain grows vertically (strengthening the wood) instead of the familiar development pattern of trees: concentric rings. Once steamed, bent into shape, and dried, rattan solidifies completely and permanently retains its shape. It is available in many colors and varieties because it accepts paint and stain like other types of wood. Rattan’s versatility allows it to take many different shapes in order to complement various styles, so it changes characteristics depending on its use.
Rattan Louis XVI Dining Set (5 pieces)
French Olive/Brown Rattan Cane Back Sofa Loveseat
After cutting and washing the rattan, workers cure the vines through smoking. Once cured, rattan must be dried to remove excess moisture. Most often, this happens over a few 12-hour days at the equator, which is the most sun-intensive environment on the planet. The next step requires the rattan be processed for either weaving or core products that become frames for baskets and furniture.
Bamboo is increasing in its popularity. From fabric, flooring, to furniture, it is an eco-friendly choice for the consumer who is going green. The plant grows particularly fast and is also diverse in terms of environment. After being harvested, bamboo replaces itself within roughly 5 years; compare that fact to the 50+ years of regrowth for hardwoods.
ZUO La Barrosa Rattan Espresso Outdoor Table Set
Woven Rattan/Leather Etagere Bookcase
For centuries artisans and cabinetmakers have been using bamboo for furniture construction—longer than many popular hardwoods in use today. Extremely durable and easily maintained, bamboo makes sense for designers and home curators looking for a natural aesthetic.
Rattan and bamboo are the materials, and wicker is the style or process—all of it is cane furniture. A rattan chaise lounge is 100% rattan, but a wicker chaise may consist of any number of other materials (e.g. bamboo around a rattan frame). Rattan and bamboo pieces are great choices for sun rooms, patios, and other open-air environments.
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