Few materials add warmth as effortlessly as a natural weave. Rattan and cane are light, breathable and full of texture. And because they’re worked by hand, each piece has a character of its own. Here’s how to choose well.
Rattan vs. cane vs. “synthetic rattan”
Rattan is a solid climbing palm: strong, slightly flexible, and lovely as a frame. Cane is the outer skin of rattan, woven into the open lattice you see on chair backs and cabinet doors. Synthetic “rattan”, often poly, is made for outdoor use. It’s durable but doesn’t have the same warmth or repairability. For indoor living, natural rattan and cane are worth it.
What good weaving looks like
- Even, tight weave with no loose or splitting strands.
- Smooth, well-finished edges where the weave meets the frame.
- A solid, reassuring frame. Give it a gentle flex; it should feel sturdy, not creaky.
Living with natural weaves
Keep rattan and cane out of constant direct sun, which can dry and embrittle the fibres over time. Dust with a soft brush or a vacuum brush attachment, getting into the weave. For a deeper clean, a barely damp cloth is fine. Then let it dry fully before use. If cane ever sags slightly, a light mist of water on the underside and a dry overnight can help it tighten back up.
Why we use it
Natural weaves let a piece feel light in a room without feeling flimsy. They pair beautifully with teak and linen, and they bring a handmade warmth that’s hard to fake. Looked after simply, they’ll stay beautiful for years.
Written by the Rohm team.