Hint: One is a material and one is a process.

Nathan Schroder

What Is Wicker?

Contrary to popular belief, wicker is not actually a material, but aprocess of weaving.

wicker rattan dining chairs

Credit:Brie Williams

Dating back to 3000 B.C.

It wasn’t until the 1800s that rattan became the ideal material for weaving wicker items.

Consider using wicker baskets toorganize your pantryor a basket with blankets in your living room.

Living room with two wicker chairs

Credit:Nathan Schroder

In the dining room, usewicker placematsto easily add texture to your tabletop.

Laurey Glenn

What Is Rattan?

Rattan is a natural material sourced from rattan palms found in southeast Asia.

Rattan couch and chairs with purple cushions

Credit:Laurey Glenn

Similar to bamboo, rattan is lightweight but also very durable.

It is easy to manipulate and comes in multipleshades of warm browns.

Blaine Moats

What Is Cane?

Cane couch with two woven wall hangings

Credit:Blaine Moats

Cane is a natural material created from the stalks of a rattan climbing vine.

While rattan is sourced from the inside of the palm, cane is taken from the outside bark.

Compared to logs of rattan, cane is made into strands that are woven or webbed to create furniture.

Bedroom with a canopy bed, green curtains, and a jute rug

Credit:Hector Sanchez

Cane is also less porous than rattan, so it is preferred in more humid climates.

Incorporatecane-backed Cesca chairsin your dining room or webbed furniture for your patio to keep your guests cool.

Sideboards or dressers with cane paneling are also a good way to incorporate the natural material into your home.

Hector Sanchez

What Is Jute?

Jute is a popular material for home and outdoor items due to its strength, durability, and eco-friendliness.

In fact, jute is 100% bio-degradable and recyclable.

Jute pillows and door mats are also great options to add coziness and texture to youroutdoor living space.

Accessed 27 June 2024.