What Is Wicker? Materials Used and Crafting Process

Wicker is a weaving technique that transforms flexible plant fibres into functional furniture, baskets, and decorative pieces. This timeless method creates lightweight yet durable products that blend natural beauty with practical versatility across indoor and outdoor spaces.

Wicker products use either natural materials like rattan, bamboo, and seagrass, or synthetic fibres engineered for weather resistance. The making process involves four stages: selecting quality materials, building structural frames, expert weaving, and protective finishing. Common wicker products include pendant lights, serving trays, chairs, sofas, and hanging seats.

This article explores wicker as a weaving method rather than a material, examines the natural and synthetic fibres used in its production, details the crafting process, and showcases its popular applications.

What Is Wicker?

Wicker is a weaving technique used to create furniture, baskets, and decorative items from pliable plant fibres. The craft interlaces flexible materials through systematic plaiting and twisting patterns to form durable, lightweight structures. Natural wicker uses rattan, bamboo, willow, reed, or seagrass, while modern versions employ synthetic fibres like polyethylene resin for enhanced weather resistance.

12 popular wicker weaving techniques

The technique originated approximately 5,000 years ago in ancient Egypt, where artisans wove marsh grasses into household containers and seating. The term "wicker" derives from the Scandinavian word "vika" (to fold), reflecting the folding motion fundamental to the craft. Traditional wicker products feature open-weave patterns that allow 60-70% air circulation, preventing moisture buildup while maintaining structural integrity.

What types of materials are wicker made from?

Wicker products use either natural plant fibres or synthetic materials engineered for durability.

Natural materials offer organic beauty and environmental sustainability. Whereas the synthetic options provide weather resistance and longevity, particularly for outdoor applications.

Natural Wicker Materials

Natural wicker comes from flexible plant fibres harvested and processed for weaving. Each material contributes unique visual and structural qualities to finished pieces.

Here are 4 common natural materials used to make wicker:

4 commonly used natural materials for wicker crafting

1. Rattan

Rattan is a popular choice due to its strength and flexibility. This climbing palm, native to Southeast Asia, has a warm, honey-toned hue that takes stains beautifully. Its durability makes it an ideal material for indoor furniture designed to endure daily use.

Rattan consists of 2 main components, such as reed and cane, which are both used to create wicker woven products:

Reed: Comes from the inner core of the rattan. It’s smooth, easy to dye, and works well for detailed decorative patterns. Its consistent texture allows for clean, polished finishes.
Cane: On the other hand, comes from the tough outer bark layer. This thin material is used in open-weave patterns, commonly seen in chair seats and backs. Cane's flexibility allows for tight, durable weaving, while still maintaining breathability.

Roll of Rattan Wicker Webbing

2. Willow

Willow provides lightweight construction with rustic charm. Basket makers favour willow for traditional hampers and country-style pieces. Its delicate nature suits decorative rather than heavy-duty applications.

Willow Wicker Basket

3. Seagrass

Seagrass naturally resists moisture, making it popular for baskets and floor coverings. Fresh seagrass appears green but fades to warm beige over time, developing a lived-in patina.

Seagrass Wicker Webbing

4. Water Hyacinth

Water hyacinth grows rapidly as an aquatic plant. Its thick fibres create bold, textured weaves. Products made from water hyacinth offer sturdy construction with striking visual presence.

Water Hyacinth Storage Basket

Synthetic Wicker Materials

Synthetic wicker uses manufactured fibres designed to withstand outdoor conditions. These materials resist weather damage while mimicking natural wicker's appearance.

Here are 4 commonly used synthetic materials for wicker crafting:

4 commonly used synthetic materials for wicker crafting

1. PE rattan (Polyethylene Resin)

PE rattan is the leading choice for outdoor furniture. This synthetic material resists UV radiation and moisture, maintaining its appearance and durability even after exposure to sun and rain.

It's ideal for patios, gardens, and poolside areas where natural materials would break down over time.

Black PE Rattan Wicker Sofa

2. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

HDPE offers superior performance compared to standard PE rattan. It’s stronger, more resistant to extreme weather, and fully recyclable.

While its appearance may not be as natural as PE rattan, it’s known for its excellent durability and eco-friendliness.

HDPE Wicker Lounge Chair

3. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is a budget-friendly option for outdoor wicker. It’s initially durable but may crack or fade with prolonged UV exposure.

PVC is best suited for covered outdoor spaces or temporary furniture, rather than for year-round use.

Light Brown PVC Wicker Storage Basket

4. PU (Polyurethane)

Polyurethane is lightweight and flexible, closely mimicking natural wicker. However, it doesn't offer the same level of weather resistance as PE or HDPE.

PU is ideal for protected outdoor areas or transitional furniture that moves between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Black PU Wicker Chair

Process of Making Wicker Weaving Products

The process of making wicker weaving products involves 4 specific steps that combine careful material selection with expert craftsmanship:

Step 1 – Material Selection: Choose the best, healthiest raw fibers (like rattan or bamboo) that are strong and have the right look.
Step 2 – Frame Creation: Build a stiff, strong inner skeleton from thicker material to give the final product its exact shape and support.
Step 3 – Weaving: Carefully interlace the flexible, thinner fibers over and around the frame, following traditional patterns to create the object's texture and structure.
Step 4 – Finishing: Protect the finished piece by sanding down rough spots, applying lacquer or oil, and treating it against pests to make it last longer and look its best.

4 steps of the wicker crafting process

11 Common Wicker Interior Examples

Wicker craftsmanship produces diverse products suited to various functional and decorative purposes. Here are 11 popular furniture using wicker weaving techniques:

1. Wicker Pendant Lights: Cast warm, patterned light through woven fibers, creating ambient lighting and a sculptural focal point. IndochinaLight specializes in handwoven rattan pendant lights for dining rooms, living areas, and entryways.
2. Woven Table Lights: Compact lighting for bedside tables, desks, and consoles, offering warmth and texture in smaller spaces.
3. Luxury Standing Lights: Floor-standing wicker lamps that illuminate corners and reading nooks, combining function with style.
4. Round Trays with Patterned Weave: Serve breakfast, organize coffee tables, or display decor with intricately woven trays.
5. Trays with Panelled Bases: Sturdy trays for heavier items, with solid bottoms and woven sides for durability and style.
6. Round Trays with Mesh Weave: Tightly woven trays for food service or organizing toiletries.
7. Wicker Chairs: Comfortable seating with open-weave backs that offer support and air circulation.
8. Wicker Sofas: Cushioned wicker sofas for sunrooms or covered outdoor spaces, combining comfort with natural lightness.
9. Wicker Rocking Chairs: Traditional comfort with breathable construction, perfect for nurseries or reading corners.
10. Wicker Tables: Lightweight, stable tables for coffee, side, or plant stands, easily moved around.
11. Wicker Hanging Chairs: Suspended seating that adds a playful, cozy focal point to modern homes.

11 popular wicker furniture

Difference Between Indoor & Outdoor Wicker Furniture

Indoor wicker uses natural fibers for beauty in controlled spaces, while outdoor wicker uses synthetic, weather-resistant materials like resin to withstand UV light, moisture, and temperature changes.

Here is the detailed comparison between indoor and outdoor wicker products:

Characteristic	Indoor Wicker	Outdoor Wicker
Material	Natural fibres (rattan, willow, seagrass)	Synthetic resins (PE, HDPE, PVC)
Durability	Moderate with proper care	High resistance to elements
Frame	Wood or lightweight metal	Aluminium or powder-coated steel
Weave Pattern	Intricate, decorative	Simpler, weather-sealed
Maintenance	Regular dusting, avoid moisture	Wash with hose, minimal care
Longevity	10-15 years indoors	5-10 years outdoors

Key differences between natural and synthetic wicker furniture

Frequently Asked Questions About Wicker

What Is the Difference Between Wicker and Rattan?

Wicker is the weaving technique used to make furniture, while rattan is the specific natural plant material (like a vine) often used in wickerwork.

Why Does Wicker Go Mouldy?

Wicker goes mouldy because natural plant fibers easily absorb moisture from the air (high humidity) or spills, creating an ideal environment for mold spores to grow and spread.

Can Wicker Get Wet?

Yes, it can get briefly wet, but prolonged moisture will damage natural wicker (causing mold or warping). Synthetic wicker (resin) is water-resistant and designed for the outdoors.

How Long Will Wicker Furniture Last Outside?

Wicker furniture can last outdoors for 2 to 10 years or longer. Its lifespan largely depends on the material it's made from:

Natural wicker: Tends to last only 2 to 5 years due to its vulnerability to weather conditions
Synthetic wicker: Can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years or longer

Conclusion

Wicker is a weaving technique, not a material, used to create furniture and decorative items from flexible fibres. At IndochinaLight, we celebrate wicker's timeless appeal through handwoven lighting collections that illuminate homes with natural beauty. Our Vietnamese artisans apply traditional techniques to sustainable materials, creating pieces that honour craft heritage while meeting contemporary design needs.

Explore our collection of handcrafted wicker rattan pendant lights. Each piece tells a story of skilled hands, natural materials, and dedication to sustainable craftsmanship.

IndochinaLight - IndochinaHomeDecor LLC

Address: 30 N Gould St Ste. N, Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (+1) 307 249 0594
Email: service@indochinalight.com

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Lewis Nguyen

Lewis Nguyen is the CEO & Founder of Indochina Light. With over 5 years of experience in interior design, Lewis is passionate about Vietnamese handicrafts and embraces the Wabi Sabi aesthetic in his creations.

His dedication to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design has shaped Indochina Light into a leader in the industry, offering unique, eco-friendly handcrafted pendant lights that reflect his vision for beauty in imperfection.