Rattan is a popular material in furniture making. It is a good material because it is lightweight, durable, flexible to a certain extent and good for outdoor use. The skin of a strand of rattan is peeled off and it is this remaining core that is weaved into baskets or formed into furniture. Many furniture makers like rattan because it easily accepts paints and stains so it can be painted into different colors. The inner core of the rattan can also be separated to make wicker. Aside from baskets and furniture it can also be made into staves and canes for martial arts, handles for percussion mallets, walking sticks and crooks for umbrellas and housing material.
Here are good reasons why you should think of rattan as the material for your home furniture.
Outdoor Furniture
Rattan makes good outdoor furniture. This is because it is durable and lightweight and also because it can be exposed to rain and sun with little or no effect. Owners will like rattan outdoor furniture because it is very easy to clean. Remove dust with a damp rag and leave and air it to dry. If it gets too dirty, simply hose it down every couple of weeks. If the paint becomes faded or cracks, a coat of paint will freshen it and give it new life.
Lightweight
Some owners do not like to leave their rattan furniture completely outdoors and like to bring them in during rain or winter. Rattan is lightweight so it is easy to transport them to the garage or covered areas so they won't be completely exposed to the elements. Rattan garden furniture for example can be exposed to water and moisture. Owners can cover them with plastic or tarp or simply move them a bit so they won’t get wet during watering.
Affordable
Most rattan exporting and making countries are located in South East Asia. However because of their popularity and because they are easier and faster to grow than timber they are more affordable compared to furniture made from teak or oak. There are many designs for rattan furniture both for indoor and outdoor use. Some of the most popular designs include black rattan garden furniture which can serve as good contrast for the traditional white picket fences.
Unique
Rattan is most commonly used outside as patio, garden or pool furniture. However there are great rattan indoor furniture that can become part of your living room, study or den. These pieces will make your living space unique. Surprise your guests with rattan indoor living room sets or dining tables and chairs. There are also consoles and bureaus made from rattan that can make your space more homey and comfortable looking.
Practical
Because of the above mentioned qualities, rattan makes for a practical furniture choice. It is durable so it lasts a long time, perfect for indoor and outdoor use making it versatile and lightweight so it can be stored easily. Rattan furniture is also easy to maintain requiring only regular dusting and polishing. Refresh the paint or stain with a coating every couple of years and you're all set.
Rattan is a sustainable furniture material that is easier and faster to grow than hardwood. This is why there are many cheap rattan garden furniture available today. Aside from gardens, rattan also looks good in porches, pool sides and decks.
Check out this guide to rattan: Understanding Rattan Garden Furniture