Rattan furniture materials

There are two primary categories when it comes to materials for furniture frames and weaves: brackets and textiles.

Bracket materials, such as rattan, undergo treatments like anti-corrosion, anti-mite, and crack prevention before being used. Besides rattan, other materials like bamboo, steel pipes, wicker, and plastics are also common. These materials provide durability and aesthetic appeal.

For woven materials, rattan remains the dominant choice. Rattan is processed into various forms, including split rattan, woven rattan, and round rattan. The portion specifically used for weaving is called rattan. Popular types include rattan, rattan, and wild vines. Family members who traditionally weave rattan furniture often use species like bamboo rattan, white rattan, red rattan, and palm rattan. Bamboo rattan, also known as agate rattan, is considered the "king of vines." It's the most expensive variety, native to Indonesia and Malaysia. Other options include kudzu, wisteria, and spatholobus, which are also utilized in rattan furniture production, primarily for weaving. De-barked rattan is referred to as cane in the furniture industry, similar to bamboo but solid. Rattan skin typically ranges from milky white to creamy yellow or light red, with some featuring speckled patterns, known as spotted rattan, adding a natural decorative touch. The cross-section of rattan reveals an uneven ratio from outer to inner layers, with a larger proportion of skin and a smaller specific gravity indicating poorer quality, while a smaller variation suggests better material.

Vines are spiny, palm-climbing plants found in tropical forests. During their growth, they contribute positively to the environment and the ecosystem by thriving in degraded areas and barren soil without disrupting the existing ecological structure or balance. This makes them vital for restoring forest resources.