What is Wicker?

When you think of wicker, do you instantly picture a beautiful, natural material? Here’s a fun fact: wicker is not a material. It’s a weaving technique — one that transforms flexible plant fibers or synthetic strands (of many varieties) into beautiful, functional designs. Often mistaken for a type of wood, wicker has been used for centuries to craft furniture, baskets and decor. In this guide, we'll break down what wicker truly is, clarify its relationship to materials like rattan, and explore how KOUBOO brings wicker to life in timeless home accents.

Material: Natural Rattan

Source: Sophie-Summer

Wicker vs Rattan: Clearing up the Differences

Material: Natural Rattan

Source: KOUBOO

The terms "wicker" and "rattan" are often used interchangeably, but they certainly aren’t the same thing.

• Wicker refers to the technique of weaving materials into patterns. It can be applied to various materials—both natural and synthetic.
• Rattan is a material — a type of climbing palm native to Southeast Asia — often used in wicker furniture and accessories.

In short: rattan can be woven using the wicker technique, but not all wicker items are made of rattan. Other materials like seagrass, willow or synthetic resin can also be used to create wicker pieces.

Popular Wicker Materials

Material: Natural Seagrass

Source: KOUBOO

Wicker furniture and decor can be made from a wide range of materials. These fall into two broad categories: natural and synthetic. Each type brings unique strengths to different applications, whether indoor or outdoor.

Natural Wicker Materials

Material: Natural Rattan

Source: KOUBOO

• Rattan: Flexible and durable, rattan is one of the most common materials used in indoor wicker furniture. It has a natural honey-toned color and takes stains and finishes well.
• Willow: Lightweight and slightly brittle, willow is often used for rustic baskets and traditional picnic hampers. It lends a charming, country-style look.
• Reed: A common basket-making material, reed is derived from the inner core of rattan. It's smooth and easy to dye, making it great for decorative pieces.
• Cane: Cane is the outer skin of the rattan plant. It's thin and durable, often used in open-weave patterns in chairs and accent furniture.
• Kubu Rattan: A special type of grey-washed rattan that’s often soaked in mud for color. It has a weathered, driftwood look and is ideal for earthy, coastal designs.
• Seagrass: Naturally moisture-resistant and soft, seagrass is frequently used in basketry and matting. It has a distinctive green hue when new that fades to beige over time.
• Water Hyacinth: A fast-growing aquatic plant used in thick, braided weaves. It creates sturdy baskets and accent furniture with a bold texture.

Synthetic Wicker Materials

Material: Synthetic HDPE

Source: Dabbling & Decorating

• PE Rattan (Resin Wicker): Polyethylene-based resin wicker is popular in outdoor furniture. It’s UV-resistant and can endure sun and rain with ease.
• HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): A premium synthetic material, HDPE mimics natural rattan but with less of a natural finish. However, it is strong and environmentally resistant. It’s also recyclable.
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Durable and cost-effective, PVC wicker is often used in lower-end outdoor furniture. However, it may crack or fade over time.
• PU (Polyurethane): Lightweight and flexible, PU wicker can mimic the look of natural materials, but it is less durable and more prone to weathering.

Wicker Material Comparison Table

What is wicker furniture most commonly made of?

Wicker furniture varies in material depending on where and how it’s used.

Indoor Wicker Furniture

Material: Natural Rattan

Source: KOUBOO

1. Rattan – The most popular natural material, loved for its strength and elegance. Explore KOUBOO’s rattan furniture collection.
2. Kubu Rattan – Adds a driftwood-style patina to furniture for a relaxed coastal look.
3. Cane – Common in chair seats and woven decorative accents.
4. Water Hyacinth – Often used for accent chairs and textured baskets.

Outdoor Wicker Furniture

Material: Synthetic PE Rattan 

Source: Good Housekeeping

1. PE Rattan – Durable and weather-resistant, ideal for patios and poolside use.
2. HDPE – Premium outdoor material with top-tier resistance to the elements.
3. PVC – Affordable for casual outdoor setups, but may not last as long.

Now you know: wicker is a weaving art form, not a material. Understanding this helps clarify the many natural and synthetic fibers that can be used to create beautiful wicker pieces. From eco-friendly seagrass baskets to high-performance HDPE patio furniture, wicker offers versatility for every space. Whether you're furnishing a sun-drenched lanai or decorating a cozy reading nook, KOUBOO’s expertly woven collections let you embrace this timeless craft with beauty and function.

Explore rattan baskets and rattan furniture from KOUBOO to bring the natural charm of wicker into your home.