Rattan
Warm, timeless, and incredibly durable — rattan is the classic natural fiber that brings organic texture to modern living. At EcoLuxLiven, our rattan collection is handwoven by skilled artisans in Vietnam using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
What is Rattan?
Rattan is a fast-growing climbing palm (genus Calamus) that thrives in tropical forests. Unlike bamboo, rattan has a solid core and bendable stems, which makes it perfect for strong, lightweight baskets and furniture. After harvesting, the canes are cleaned, cured, and split or peeled to create the weaving strands and binding cane you see in our pieces.
How Our Artisans Work
- Harvest & Cure: Mature rattan canes are harvested and sun-dried to stabilize fibers.
- Prepare Strands: Canes are split/peeled into uniform strands for weaving and binding.
- Hand Weaving: Each piece is shaped and woven by hand for strength and precision.
- Finishing: Surfaces are trimmed, sanded and finished with water-based sealers where needed.
Why We Love Rattan
- Long-lasting: Strong yet lightweight — ideal for daily storage.
- Timeless look: Neutral honey tones blend with any interior style.
- Breathable: Keeps contents aired — perfect for textiles, toys and home essentials.
- Low-impact: A renewable forest fiber with minimal waste in production.
Styling Ideas
- Entryway: Large lidded baskets for shoes and seasonal accessories.
- Living room: Soft-throw & magazine storage with lidded organizers.
- Bedroom: Under-bed woven boxes for linens and spare pillows.
- Pets: Handwoven pet beds for breathable comfort.
Care & Maintenance
- Dust gently with a soft brush or microfiber cloth.
- Spot clean with a slightly damp cloth; avoid soaking.
- Allow to dry fully in a shaded, ventilated area.
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight or persistent humidity.
- Indoor use (or covered outdoor spaces) is recommended.
Sustainability & Ethics
Rattan is a renewable forest resource that supports rural livelihoods and incentivizes forest protection. We collaborate with small workshops in Vietnam, ensuring fair pay, safe conditions and traceable supply chains.
Natural Variations
Color, weave tension, and small nodes vary subtly from piece to piece — these natural marks of handcraft make your item uniquely yours.
Rattan FAQs
Is rattan waterproof?
No. Rattan is a natural fiber — keep it dry. If it gets damp, air dry in the shade.
Can rattan be used outdoors?
Use indoors or in covered areas. Prolonged sun/rain will weaken fibers over time.
What’s the difference between rattan and wicker?
Rattan is the material. “Wicker” refers to the weaving technique (which can use many fibers).
How do I remove a natural scent?
Air your piece in a shaded, ventilated space for 24–48 hours; the scent will dissipate.
How much weight can a basket hold?
It depends on size and weave. Our storage baskets are designed for textiles and household items; avoid heavy loads like firewood unless specified.