Woven furniture and decor are trending in modern design, thanks to styles like coastal and cottagecore. These natural pieces, made from materials such as rattan, cane, and jute, add warmth, texture, and versatility to any space. However, terms like “wicker” and “rattan” are often used interchangeably, which can be confusing. Here’s a breakdown of these popular materials and tips on how to decorate with each one.
What Is Wicker?
Wicker isn’t actually a material—it’s a weaving technique that dates back to ancient Egypt around 3000 B.C. Originally crafted from reeds, palms, and swamp grasses, wicker became synonymous with rattan furniture in the 1800s. Today, both natural and synthetic materials are used to make wicker furniture, allowing for indoor and outdoor options. For indoor wicker, natural materials like rattan, cane, and seagrass are popular, while outdoor wicker is often made from synthetic fibers to withstand weather conditions.
Decorating with Wicker: Wicker’s natural tones and durable texture make it an excellent choice for home decor. Use wicker baskets to organize your pantry, or add a wicker blanket basket in your living room for a cozy touch. In the dining room, consider wicker placemats to add texture, or place a wicker tray on your table for a touch of warmth and simplicity.
What Is Rattan?
Rattan is a natural material sourced from the rattan palm, found in Southeast Asia. With over 600 species, rattan is a type of climbing palm that grows along tree trunks. The vines are cut, straightened, and processed into furniture, baskets, and decor items. Like bamboo, rattan is lightweight and durable, making it easy to shape into a variety of designs. The wood is boiled, dried, and hardened, allowing for curved and arched forms.
Decorating with Rattan: Known for its resilience, rattan is perfect for outdoor furniture. Try swapping old patio pieces for rattan chairs and ottomans to enhance your outdoor living area. Indoors, rattan furniture can be stained or painted to match any decor style, and lightweight rattan is ideal for hanging light fixtures, creating subtle yet impactful decor pieces.
What Is Cane?
Cane is made from the outer bark of the rattan vine, while rattan furniture is crafted from the inner part. Cane is typically woven into thin, flexible strands and used for seating and backs in furniture due to its lightweight and durable nature. It’s also less porous than rattan, making it ideal for humid climates.
Decorating with Cane: Cane’s flexibility and airy feel make it a great choice for chair backs and seat bases. Add cane-backed Cesca chairs to your dining room or use webbed cane furniture on the patio. Cane panels on sideboards or dressers are also a stylish way to incorporate this natural material into any room.
What Is Jute?
Jute is a durable fiber sourced from the corchorus plant, commonly found in India and Bangladesh. Known for its strength, jute fibers are separated from the plant stalk through soaking, then spun into yarn or twine. Jute is eco-friendly and 100% biodegradable, making it a sustainable choice for decor like rugs, mats, and upholstery.
Decorating with Jute: To add texture, place a jute rug under a colorful area rug, allowing the jute to peek through. If you prefer less texture underfoot, consider jute window treatments or hanging jute bags on hooks. Jute pillows and doormats also add a cozy, rustic touch to both indoor and outdoor spaces.
Each of these materials brings a unique texture and aesthetic, allowing you to incorporate natural elements into your decor in ways that complement your style and meet practical needs. Understanding the differences helps you make choices that enhance your home’s design with warmth, durability, and eco-friendly appeal.
