What is Wicker? What is Wicker Made of?

You must have seen something made out of flexible twigs bent and woven in a pattern, it may be a chair, a basket, a footrest, or something else. No matter what it is, it’s wicker. Shop now on GoWicker.

What is wicker?

Wicker is an almost 5000 years old method of furniture making known in the world’s history. It was first used by Egyptians, they used to weave flexible plant materials in a typical braiding pattern. The word ‘Wicker’ has its roots in the Scandinavian language and is derived from the word ‘Vika’ which means to bend. Archeologists have found so many wicker items while working in Egyptian pyramids. Persians and Romans also followed Egyptians’ footsteps in wicker making later on by the 16th and 17th centuries these techniques were passed down to many European countries.

In the 1850s a young American boy Cyrus Wakefield started his journey in wicker making and emerged as one of the leading industries in wicker furniture. He used rattan that was being discarded from ships.

Later his company was merged with Heywood Chair Manufacturing Company and became a very prominent wicker manufacturer.

Wicker furniture is sturdy, comfortable, and durable. It also has a very appealing look. Natural wicker is much more suitable for indoor use as it gets brittle and cracks in direct sunlight although there is moisture-resistant coated natural wicker furniture available synthetic wicker is much more suitable and durable for outdoor use.

Material – What is Wicker Made of?

Traditionally wicker is constructed by using plant material and for that purpose plants like bamboo, reeds, rattan, and swap grass are used but nowadays wicker also uses synthetic materials like resin and plastic.

Rattan is the most important natural material. Rattan is a family of climbing palms that includes around 600 species. Its splintering resistance and durability make it suitable for wicker products.

Bamboo belongs to the grass family ‘Poaceae’, their long thin stems are also used in wicker. Unlike rattan, their stems are hollow making them less popular in the wicker industry.

One of the most popular materials used to make wicker furniture is rattan. This type of wicker is made from the stem of the rattan plant, which is native to Southeast Asia. The stem is peeled and then soaked in water to make it more pliable. Once it is dry, it can be woven into a variety of designs and shapes.

Willow Wicker Furniture

Willow wicker furniture is made from the branches of the willow tree. This type of wicker is more rustic in appearance and is commonly used to make baskets, hampers, and other decorative items. It is lightweight and flexible, but not as durable as rattan or bamboo.

Reed Wicker Furniture

Reed wicker furniture is made from the stems of the reed plant. This type of wicker is strong and durable, making it a good choice for outdoor furniture. Reed wicker furniture is known for its natural color and unique texture, which gives it a rustic look.

Ancient Egyptians used indigenous reeds and swamp grass for wicker. Swamp grass includes many types of ornamental plants that require swamp or sometimes moist soil to grow.
Nowadays synthetic rattan is also being used for wicker as it can withstand both sunlight and water. Pre-colored resin is also being used which reduces the problem and fading.

How is Wicker Furniture made?

For Wicker furniture, a frame is made first, and then weaving is done. Plant material is chosen and cut according to the desired thickness, hardness, and size sometimes they soak it in water to make it soft and easy to bend.

Bending is done by using different kinds of equipment sometimes a steam boiler and toasting with fire is also done to bend it easily. Sandpaper is used to make the surface look nice and clean.
Braiding is done by hand according to the desired pattern.

For outdoor furniture, frames should be made of a material that can withstand light and water. Aluminum is the most suitable material for this purpose as it does not rust. Other products like jugs and baskets are woven without a frame.

Synthetic resins and vinyl are also hand-woven and then attached to the frames.
To summarize, wicker is a traditional furniture-making technique that makes strong, durable, inexpensive furniture that adds beauty to your place.

What we think about the Wicker Furniture

Wicker furniture is a great option for those who are looking for comfortable, stylish, and eco-friendly furniture. Whether you choose rattan, bamboo, willow, or reed, you can be sure that your wicker furniture will be both durable and beautiful. It is easy to clean and maintain, and with the right care, it can last for many years.

Overall, Wicker is a versatile and sustainable material that has been used for centuries to make furniture. It is made from natural materials such as rattan, bamboo, willow, or reed and it is easy to clean and maintain. Wicker furniture is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and it is a great option for those who are looking for comfortable and stylish furniture that is also eco-friendly.