WICKER: THE POWER OF SOFTNESS
Wicker, an ancient weaving technique dating back to 5,000 years ago, remains a prevalent choice for creating furniture and homewares. Traditionally crafted from flexible plants such as rattan and marsh grasses, contemporary wicker utilizes a variety of malleable materials like seagrass, water hyacinth, and corn husks. This blog will provide you insights about two types of wicker, and how they apply into different corners. Have a read!
How many types of Wicker are there?
Two. This table shows what thay are and the differences between them:
| Natural Wicker | Outdoor Wicker | |
| Definition | a weaving technique using natural pliable materials to manufacture homewares and furniture | a type of weaving using synthetic, plastic fibers to manufacture outdoor homewares and furniture |
| Materials | seagrass, water hyacinth, bamboo, rattan, corn husk, banana leaf/bark, etc. | HDPE, PVC |
| Appearance | having a earthy color; soft, rustic texture; | having a similar look to rattan; different colors. |
| Properties | – Advantages: eco-friendly, relatively durable, visually appealing; – Disadvantages: subject to mold, affected by inclement weather; careful preservation. |
– Advantages: extremely durable, moisture-resistant, little to no maintenance; – Disadvantages: limited textures, not as good-looking as natural wicker. |
| Applications | Mainly indoor use: large baskets, trays, indoor planters, lights and lamp shades, pet beds, etc. | Mainly outdoor use: patio furniture, tablewares, chairs & table, and outdoor portable lanterns, daybed, dining set, etc. |
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Is Rattan and Wicker the same thing?
Many people mistakenly think that rattan and wicker are the same thing but in fact, they are two different things. Rattan is a natural material for making homewares and home goods wholesale. However, wicker is actually a type of weaving or a process for making household items out of pliable plants.
Is Wickerwork Eco-friendly?
Yes, natural wickerwork is. This type of wickerwork is typically made from rapidly renewable, biodegradable plants. A common water hyacinth, for instance, can double in size in just five to fifteen days, making it one of the fastest-growing plants in the world. Water hyacinth and many other materials for natural wicker can grow without the use of pesticides, which helps reduce carbon footprint or environmental impacts.
Will Wickerwork Last Outside?
When it comes to outdoor use, all-weather wickerwork stands resilient against environmental conditions, making it ideal for a range of products from patio furniture to garden decor. In contrast, natural wickerwork might be prone to UV damage and moisture. While suitable for outdoor use, it’s crucial to shield natural wickerwork from excessive exposure to direct sunlight and rain to preserve its integrity.
How Do You Maintain Wickerwork?
To maintain the longevity of natural wicker homewares, regular cleaning and proper upkeep are essential. A gentle vacuum or brush can effectively remove surface dust, while stubborn stains or mold may require a mild cleaning solution made of water with added ammonia. Regular care is crucial in preserving the appearance and functionality of your wicker items.
Your choice of wicker material should align with its intended use. All-weather wicker caters to the needs of those seeking durable, low-maintenance outdoor products. In contrast, natural wickerwork requires meticulous care, especially when utilized outdoors, to retain its original look and quality.
