People sometimes get mistaken about rattan and other materials, such as wicker. The originality comes from the product and the process. This refers to the understanding that rattan is a tropical palm tree that grows upward like a tree. Along with its growth, rattan will bend back down toward the ground before snaking out like vines through other trees and plants, or those might be surrounding it.

Once the rattan has been cut, it is dried before turning into rattan furniture material. Rattan has been around for centuries and it is considered a high quality, reliable and affordable option for building material, especially furniture.  In fact, rattan is known for being one of the strongest materials available, which is why many people choose this kind of furniture to decorate their outdoor spaces as it can stand up to weather throughout the year.

How Is Rattan Furniture Made?

The process to make rattan furniture is usually steamed, and then bent to accommodate the style, size, and shape of the rattan furniture that is being made. The materials are then woven around and into this outer “shell” before being completed. Taking from this process will show the difference between rattan and wicker. Wicker furniture is truly rattan material woven in a specific way to make it identifiable as such.

The treated rattan branches can be bent into desired shapes by using molds or bending machines. Rattan can bend easily and can create curved, twisted, circular, or other shapes depending on the design of the furniture. The bent rattan branches are assembled by using nails, screws, glue or cords. Details such as cushions, covers, fabrics, or leather can be added to increase comfort and luxury for the furniture.

For more information about rattan and rattan furniture, please visit www.javarattan.com

–sh