Wicker Patio Furniture, For Refined Taste

Natural, handcrafted wicker patio furniture is always special for its distinctive look. Wicker adds charm to any casual, tropical, or garden decor.

Natural wicker furniture should be protected from harsh weather, and is most often used within sheltered settings such as covered porches and patios, sunrooms and indoors. Rattan and wicker furniture is usually not used in unprotected outdoor settings except if only temporarily, on special occasions, or if the furniture is brought to a protected area whenever it rains.

Never allow natural wicker to be exposed to rain. All-weather wicker will be discussed later.

When protected from the elements, natural wicker is durable as well as being very attractive. Many decorators favor natural wicker because it lends itself well to a wide range of decorative fabrics and colors. Various finishes are used that can be customized to suit any garden decor.

Wicker is always hand-woven from either thin rattan reeds or other plant materials. In natural wicker furniture, rattan is used in the frame.

All-Weather Wicker

Unlike natural wicker, all-weather wicker is made from a wide range of synthetic materials. These can include synthetic strands twisted around wire, vinyl, fiberglass, or other non-organic materials. At times a true natural wicker will be used but will have a plastic coating. Often, aluminum is used in the frame.

All-weather wicker is well-suited to outdoor use and can be exposed to the elements. As long as it is washed every one or two weeks with warm sudsy water, rinsed with clear water, and dried, all-weather wicker will last for many long years in an outdoor setting.