What is Rattan?
Rattan is the name given to around six hundred species of palms that are native to tropical regions of Asia, Australasia and Africa. These are vine-like climbing plants that grow quickly and can reach up to several hundred feet in height. Their stems can range is size from only a few millimetres in diameter, up to around seven centimetres, depending on the species of plant.
Easier to harvest that the forests in which they grow, rattan plants are a more environmentally-friendly option and are used for producing a number of items including furniture, baskets, musical instruments and martial arts bastons.
The loggers who cut the stems need far simpler tools for the job, and the produce is much more easily transported than heavy logs. It is thought that the use of rattan in the production of furniture will greatly assist in forest maintenance, as the rattan can be quickly replaced and is more sustainable that wood.
From a strand of rattan, the skin is generally peeled off, to be used as rattan weaving material. The remaining inner core can be used for various purposes in furniture making and is often utilised in wicker pieces.
Many people confuse rattan and bamboo, but they are very different. Bamboo comes from tropical grasses which are hollow. It is not as strong or flexible as rattan, and is usually wrapped as there is nothing to screw into.
When comparing the quality of rattan, there are several things to look out for. The stem of the rattan should be at least 1.5inches thick. It should not have any hair-like strands and it should feel smooth to the touch. The colour should be even. It should be noted, however, that while the appearance of the rattan will affect the price and overall quality of the item, the stem size will indicate the strength, regardless of the grade of rattan which has been used. Rattan is graded A-C, with A being the finest quality. Grade C might have dents, splits or rough, uneven areas and possibly hair-like strands hanging from the wood.
Also look to see how your furniture is joined together. Is it with glue and screws or nails and staples? Screwed pieces will last longer, but make sure the screws are concealed.
Whilst rattan is strong and durable, on its own it is not suitable for outdoor use. However, manufacturers use a synthetic resin in the production process which ensures it is hardwearing and can be safely used outside and will last for many years if looked after correctly.
How to look after your Rattan Garden Furniture
Rattan furniture is easy to maintain:
1. Place rubber stoppers on the feet of your rattan garden furniture to prevent unnecessary wear or damage from the floor.
2. Clean it regularly (generally once a month would be sufficient, but do it weekly if the furniture gets lots of use) with a soft cloth and suds, taking care not to get the wood too wet.
3. Use an old toothbrush to clean the cracks and crevices.
4. Once a year give it a more thorough clean, and once the furniture is completely dry, seal the wood with a coat of lacquer or shellac.
Why choose Rattan?
There are many benefits to owning rattan garden furniture. Firstly, you will be the envy of your friends and neighbours as the flexibility of the material means that stunning furniture can be produced.
Secondly, you can be assured that the sources of the raw material can be replanted and will quickly re-establish themselves, thereby reducing the harmful effect of de-forestation on the environment.
Thirdly, buying rattan furniture ensures value for money and a product that will give you many years of outdoor please.