Rattan furniture is a distinctive style of furniture constructed traditionally from the rattan vine. When the vine is used in furniture it is often constructed using the wicker process. Traditionally constructed rattan furnishings was/is often built around a solid timber frame generally constructed from teak hardwood. Once the frame is constructed the rattan is heated and applied in wicker style. Traditional rattan outdoor furniture doesn’t require a great deal of maintenance.
This traditional furniture can be very environmentally sound especially if the materials are sourced from renewable sources. Synthetic or man made poly rattan is the latest development in rattan furniture. Using nylon man made strands, steel or aluminum framed furniture is clad in a wicker style to emulate natural rattan whilst doing away with potential mould or fading problems associated with the organic furniture. As a result of these developments poly rattan furniture is now the derigeur option when choosing outdoor rattan furniture, although perhaps not as environmentally friendly as the organic traditional alternative.