Cane

Cane or Rattan has the potential to become a good alternative to various forms of hardwood furniture and décor items. It has been in use by humans and Indigenous to Asia specifically Indonesia and Malaysia. It has found its way to ancient Egypt and Renaissance Europe due to its diverse use. Cane and Rattan is indigenous to Asia, specifically Indonesia and Malaysia (the debate is open on this!). The use of cane and rattan can be traced to ancient Egypt and Renaissance Europe. In India, cane/rattan furniture have been in use since time immemorable. Nearly every Indian would have used or owned a cane rattan furniture some point in their lives.

Rattan canes are cut in the forest and are partially processed before being sold. Canes with small diameters are dried in the sun and often smoked using sulphur. Large canes are boiled in oil to make them dry and to protect them from insects. The skin of rattan is used as a weaving material and the core of the rattan is used as a furniture making material because of its light weight, durability, flexibility and its ability to withstand various weather conditions.

Rattan is a naturally renewable palm that grows in the tropical regions of Africa, Asia and Australia and is used for furniture, handicrafts and building material among others. Rattan continues to be an invaluable part of rural people’s livelihood in South and Southeast Asia.

Rattan is an attractive resource because it is easier to harvest than timber and is also easier to transport whole and it grows faster than trees.

Rattan can be designed and shaped into any kind of furniture.

Rattan is cost effective, resistant to weather changes, Versatile, needs low maintenance and is eco-friendly.

Cane or rattan is a great alternative to wood. It helps in maintaining ecological balance and reduce deforestation due to less logging of trees. Due to its ability to re-sprout, rattan plant becomes a renewable resource.

Rattan is best grown under tree cover since it’s a climber. It climbs trees and thus indirectly protects tree cover and forests.