Wicker Furniture - The Good and the Bad

If you though that wicker was a natural fiber, you'reand have several advantages over natural fiber.
not alone. You're also quite wrong. Wicker refers toWicker furniture made from synthetic materials
the style of weaving materials around a frame tocomes in a variety of colors. Therefore, you do not
make furniture. This technique has been around for ahave to limit yourself to shades of brown. Since the
long time. Even the ancient Egyptians used this stylecolors are embedded into the material, rough handling
to make baskets out of reed and grass. So, wicker isdoes not leave scratches or cause the color to peel
not a kind of material. However, since weavingoff. The color does not fade even when the
requires pliable material, wicker furniture is generallyfurniture is exposed to long hours of sunshine. Being
made from natural fibers like bamboo and rattan andsynthetic, the material is immune to the attack of
over time, wicker became synonymous with naturalparasites.
fiber. These days, however, stunning wicker furnitureWicker furniture is lightweight. So, they may be
is available in a number of synthetic materials too.moved around easily. At the same time, they are
Wicker has carved a niche for itself because of itssturdy because of the technique used to weave the
distinct style. The interlaced weaving is intricate butmaterial. Therefore, they can easily support a lot of
sturdy. Since wicker lacks rigidity, it requires a sturdyweight even though they are lightweight.
frame for the latticework. Good quality wickerSince natural wicker furniture is generally placed in the
furniture makes use of materials like wood, aluminumoutdoors, it is important to take good care of them
or stainless steel. In case of inexpensive furniture,to ensure long life. You might need to store them
rattan frames or bamboo may be used. High gradeaway during the rains or during intense heat.
wicker furniture is generally made from treated woodSynthetic materials do not need much maintenance.
and rattan.They may simply be wiped clean. In case of heavy
Generally, wicker furniture is made from naturalstains or dirt, they may even be washed.
materials. However, materials like rattan and woodThe cost factor also adds to the appeal of this
may rot or decay. Natural material is exposed to thefurniture. Wicker costs less than most other kinds of
attack of parasites like termites. Therefore,outdoor furniture and there is absolutely no
untreated natural material does not last long. By usingcompromise in the look or elegance of the furniture.
synthetic materials like metal wires and frames likeThe only disadvantage of wicker furniture is that
plastic, steel, wrought iron and aluminum, you canthey are prone to attracting dust in the tiny nooks
ensure that your furniture lasts for an eternity whileand crevices between the layers. However, since it is
maintaining the natural good looks of wicker.easy to wash off the dust, this is easily taken care
Synthetic fibers may be made from hydrocarbonsof.