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Natural vs. synthetic wicker
Since the word “wicker” refers to a weaving process rather than one particular material, there are many varieties made out of different materials.
The most common are:
- Rattan: A member of the palm family, this strong yet flexible vine is found all over Asia. Cane wicker, used to weave seats and wrap joints, is made from the bark. Older pieces, usually painted, can also be made with reeds created from the inside pith.
- Reed: Natural grasses are spun into a rope that is then woven onto a frame. Seagrass (sometimes called Hong Kong or Oriental grass) is the most common followed by water hyacinth and banana leaf.
- Willow: Sometimes referred to as “stick or twig furniture,” willow has a more rustic look and is usually nailed together.
- Bamboo: Pretty but fragile, bamboo does not make sturdy furniture, so it is often found in larger wicker pieces.
- Paper fibre rush: A man-made twisted paper product mostly found on chair seats, it’s extremely water sensitive.
- Synthetic: With an aluminium frame, this wicker uses either rubberized rattan (resin wicker) or 100 per cent plastic resin (all-weather wicker). Only the all-weather wicker can be safely left outdoors.
Indoor vs. outdoor wicker
Leave natural wicker indoors—particularly if you haven’t had it appraised and don’t know its worth. “UV rays from sunshine will dry out wicker and moisture from dew and rain eventually rots the fibres,” cautions Peters. “Natural wicker is not made for outdoors and once antique wicker furniture is ruined, it can never be replaced. Buy all-weather wicker or resin wicker for outdoor use.”
If you want the natural wicker look without the plastic, Peter suggests buying inexpensive rattan pieces, which should last about five years.
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