Furniture made of artificial rattan looks stylish in a summer cottage.
It has many advantages and can be done independently. From this article you will find out what is needed for this and how to make furniture correctly.
The benefits of rattan furniture
Rattan can be either natural or artificial. It is worth noting that natural material grows in the tropics, therefore, in connection with transportation, this material will cost more than the artificial version. The latter has a number of advantages, which include not only low price, but also strength, as well as resistance to external factors.
The furniture does not weigh much and it is very easy to look after it; just wipe the chair or chair with a damp cloth. And on furniture made of such material, dust will not accumulate so much. There are a large number of different shades of artificial rattan, so you can choose the one that will fit perfectly into your interior.
Artificial rattan furniture can be made in any style. It all depends on your preferences and the place where it will be installed. It is also worth noting such an important fact as material safety. He is not able to emit toxic substances, so you can be calm about your health and the health of your children. You can see the furniture here and make one.
Rattan chairs in the interior - features and advantages of models
Wicker products bring an atmosphere of comfort into the house, bring residents closer to nature. At the same time they look luxurious, emphasizing the taste and wealth of the owners. Rattan chairs harmoniously fit into classic, modern interior design styles. A comfortable rest on such furniture helps to restore strength, relax as much as possible. It can be placed in the kitchen, in the dining room, living room, garden, on the balcony, in the children's room.
Products made of twigs have many advantages that determine such versatility:
- light weight - even a child can cope with the change of stool,
- strength and reliability - due to the properties of the vine, the design of the chair is a rigid frame, stable, withstanding significant loads,
- ease of care
- long operation - at least 25 years,
- safety - natural materials do not harm even with daily, prolonged use of furniture
- resistance to heat and moisture - rattan wicker chairs can be placed on the street,
- Large selection of decoration options.
With so many advantages, there are a few drawbacks. This includes the high cost of natural vine chairs, a light creak at the beginning of their operation.
Rattan - material properties
Natural rattan is a material that is made from peeled, dried stalks of calamus, a special climbing palm. In Southeast Asia alone, there are about 300 species of tropical plants suitable for making wicker furniture. In Australia, Africa, you can also find several types of rattan plants. The length of the vine varies from 80 to 300 m, the stem has a flexible structure, is able to curl on the crowns of tall trees. There are also upright rattan plants, they reach a height of 5-8 m.
The structure of the vine includes a hard bark, a more elastic layer, a hard core. In the manufacture of chairs, the bark is removed, then the stem is calibrated to achieve a thickness of 0.5 inches. Steaming plants makes them plastic, which makes it possible to weave products. After drying, the rattan retains its shape, can withstand weight up to 250 kg. To preserve the material from moisture, fading in the sun, manufacturers use impregnations, varnishes.
Products with artificial rattan are considered more affordable. It consists of a synthetic thread, kapron or rubber. In addition to saving, the advantages are durability, long-term furniture service, and moisture resistance.
How a rattan wicker chair is arranged
A wide range of products from the vine allows you to choose a chair for every taste, but many models are similar to each other constituent elements. This is mainly the base, seat, back. In shape, wicker chairs are divided into:
- models with legs or a solid base - have earned their popularity for their practicality, compactness and attractive appearance. Placed near the dining table, in the living room, in the garden for tea drinking,
- rocking chairs - ideal for relaxing. Adults and children love to swing on a rattan chair with a book in their hands, sitting on the veranda and wrapping themselves in a blanket. The design is reliable and stable, but takes up more space compared to the previous model,
- hanging models - differ from other rattan products by the absence of legs, are mounted on a special tripod or to the ceiling, beam. They look luxurious, decorate even the most modern apartments and villas. The design is a semi ball, located vertically in the air. The shape of the chair is round, square, teardrop-shaped, is the largest item made of rattan chairs,
- stools - simple, compact products that serve for a short rest, very light, mobile. A good option for a children's room, porch, kitchen.
The seats are round, rectangular, legs or bases are also similar in design. The main difference between stools and chairs, chairs in the absence of a back and armrests.
Frame
To create a reliable framework of wickerwork, trunks of rattan plants are used, the strong bark of which protects against mechanical damage. Under the influence of steam, the thick vine also has plastic properties, which makes it possible to make curved legs, runners and a back with armrests. Some craftsmen make wicker rattan chairs on their own. They make the frame of the structure from wood battens or buy metal blanks, after which they are braided with artificial lashes, create the missing parts, decorate the product.
Fixing the frame and guide tapes, rods, on the basis of which the pattern will be woven, is carried out using self-tapping screws, pins, bolts or thin pieces of leather.
Weaving techniques
Chair weaving is made on the finished frame using a natural rattan or strong nylon threads. Depending on the complexity of execution and the selected raw materials, weaving techniques are divided into:
- simple - differs in ease of execution, even a beginner will cope. The pattern is obtained with ordinary cells or almost without them, if weave thickly,
- rope - they are mastered by people who used to deal with the previous type of weaving. The result is a tight connection of the material with an ornament resembling a twisted rope
- openwork - the level of falsity depends on the type of pattern desired. Cells of geometric shapes are considered simple: rhombuses, rings, columns, spirals and chess. A more professional level is creating a pattern that looks like a variety of lace,
- in three rods - weaving with several ribbons at once requires skills, so beginners should not take up such work. The difficulty is that the tension of all the rods is the same, otherwise the product will turn out not to be durable and not beautiful,
- in four rods - a similar technique from the previous one, but differs by the presence of two methods for its implementation. The first option - the picture comes out the same on both sides. The second case is used to fix weak bands of material, it looks like a rope.
A very important point while working on wicker furniture is the constant monitoring of the rattan rows: it must lie very evenly so that there are no distortions. If you drag or pull one of the sides of the tape, the product will not be functional and not beautiful.
Rules for the operation and maintenance of rattan furniture
To maximize the life of the wicker chair and maintain an attractive appearance, you can follow simple rules. Regular care of wicker furniture is to remove dust and dirt from the surface with a damp cloth. The use of chemicals is not recommended; a weak saline solution is acceptable. The varnish coating and the properties of the rattan will not save the material intact under constant exposure to water, so you should not shower the chair with a hose or shower.
Garden furniture is best placed under the cover, prolonged exposure to the sun leads to a change in the color of the products. Do not leave rattan chairs near open flames or electric heaters; the material quickly ignites. It is also subject to mechanical damage: chips and scratches from sharp objects.
From time to time, wicker structures need restoration: updating the layer of linseed oil (to maintain flexibility) and varnish (for strength and moisture resistance).
How to choose a rattan wicker chair
You can’t get caught in a fake or purchase a defective item by paying attention to the following points:
- there are few seams in a quality product, ideally one;
- homogeneous weaving, without breaks, adversely affecting the life of the furniture,
- uniform coloring, no gaps and smudges,
- the presence of traces of glue indicates poor work performance.
What interior styles is the rattan chair suitable for?
Rattan pieces of furniture will successfully fit into rooms decorated in the following styles: country, Provence, shabby chic, classic or mixed interior designs. Wicker chairs harmoniously combine with glass, pillows made of natural materials. Plant motifs on curtains, carpets, wall coverings complement the atmosphere of unity with nature. It is not complete without beautiful equipment, accessories made of artificial materials that bring a touch of modernity. Place rattan chairs, chairs not only in the living room or in the kitchen. In the bathroom, in conjunction with a small table, a laundry basket, such a product looks exquisite, creates an atmosphere of comfort.
Differences between technotang and natural material
The main, but not the only difference is the weight of finished products and the diverse color palette of objects made of technical material. Such pieces of furniture are used for indoor use, fit into the composition of the garden, terrace, balcony, because they are also intended for outdoor use. Artificial rattan sofas and garden chairs do not require careful maintenance and do not show a pronounced reaction to interaction with atmospheric factors that negatively affect 90% of home furniture.
Provided that the technical rattan will sometimes be wiped with a damp cloth, the product will last much longer than other garden furniture on the market.
What furniture is durable
Of course, the one that was tested under the influence of negative factors, including climatic ones. Interior items made from artificial rattan have no equal in this regard.
Use furniture at least in 24 by 7 mode, arrange a crush test in the form of heavy rain, Finnish sauna, scorching sun rays - the texture and color will not change. Such technical characteristics make artificial rattan chairs preferable in the choice of furniture for street cafes, restaurants, cottages, garden compositions. The hotel and restaurant complex of hotels and pensions also does not do without the use of furnishings in the interior, which are distinguished by reliability, durability and at the same time beauty.
Assortment of artificial rattan furniture
Variety is an integral characteristic of technical rattan products. Tables, sofas, chairs are made from raw materials, the task of which is to decorate the interior and give it functionality. Such furniture is combined with glass, leather, wooden, fabric elements in the interior. Such a concept opens up wide possibilities for translating original design solutions into reality. With the selection of products from this material should not be a problem.
Area of sales of products from technotang
The range of goods is presented on the market, on the Internet. Retail chains and small subsidiaries advertise garden furniture on the pages, attracting customers with discounts and promotions. The possibility of ordering furniture online is of interest to many. After all, now you can browse the catalog, select a product and, having decided on the final version, order it, and after visiting the salon take the purchase to your home. A table, sofa or chair made of artificial rattan makes its way from the warehouse to the house to complete the task. Such furniture is comfortable and functional, characterized by the presence of style.
Artificial rattan in style
Important indicators of synthetic material are environmental friendliness and safety. As such, technotorong does not emit harmful and toxic substances, does not pollute the environment and does not adversely affect human health. Technological studies have shown that even when heated, the material does not turn into a toxic substance.
Modern rattan garden furniture is framed by an aluminum frame, which gives the structure rigidity and shape. A rattan decorative ribbon of a wide range of colors is woven on this frame. It is interesting that the rattan cord does not have a limited length, therefore interior items made using the weaving technique are obtained without seams and joints, which in other cases are considered to be weak points of woven products.
What is the uniqueness of rattan furniture?
Outwardly, synthetic rattan resembles a plastic cord, inside of which is hidden a silk thread, which gives the cord additional strength and elasticity. To some extent, artificial material is even better than natural, because such furniture does not tear and does not unwind. The width of the tape also varies. Available in the market color schemes that differ in texture.
The structure and properties of the artificial material are close to the natural vine, although the technical material has greater flexibility, strength, moisture resistance. In addition to the above characteristics, sofas, tables, chairs, hanging chairs made of artificial rattan, as well as other pieces of furniture are not affected by fungal formations and bacteria.
Scope of products from technotang
Rattan furniture is used for the arrangement of country houses, terraces, gardens and summer cottages. It is not without the use of such furniture and the arrangement of cafes and restaurants in the appropriate style. The practice of arranging photo zones with rattan furniture, which gives lightness and comfort, becomes frequent. Designers use wicker furniture in the interior design of modern apartments. Such a room immediately acquires charm, transforms into an original, brightly accented dining or guest area.
There are rattan products in pools, saunas, spas, and other places where the humidity level exceeds the norm.
The assortment of furniture is wide. The collections consist of both classic models of sofas, tables, chairs and armchairs made of artificial rattan, as well as original non-standard products, the shape of which looks advantageous against the background of the modern interior style used in the design of the room.
Which highlight the disadvantages of rattan furniture
Everything that is created by the human hand has advantages and disadvantages - this is natural.Furniture items also belong to this group, although they have much less negative qualities than positive ones.
An inexpensive chair made of artificial rattan will have to look. Despite the fact that artificial raw materials are cheaper than natural wood, products made of technical grade differ in overpriced value. This explains the narrow scope of the use of this kind of furniture. After all, not everyone can include in the budget a set of furniture for a round sum.
In some cases, artificial rattan reacts unpredictably to direct contact with water, although it is not afraid of moisture. After heavy rain, the attractive appearance of the products may be spoiled, therefore it is better to cover them with cellophane, and with the onset of the cold season, remove them from the street.
How the rocking chair made of artificial rattan will react to atmospheric factors depends on the quality of the raw materials used to produce furniture weaving tapes. So, too hard tapes can soon dry out under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, other rattan furniture, for example Paulina, needs to be systematically wiped with a damp cloth (microfiber). Therefore, it is so important to study the technical features and characteristics before buying rattan furniture, and also familiarize yourself with the intricacies of caring for furniture in the house.
As you can see, the use of non-natural raw materials for the production of home furniture is not always safe. In the case of using technical rattan, you can not worry and boldly transform your home. Take care of the arrangement of the living room, terrace, garden, and the manufacturer already took care of your safety when he invented such progressive material.
Pros and cons of natural rattan
Natural rattan is a style and history in the interior, as well as a real headache for its owners. Now you’ll see this for yourself, but let's start with the good! So, two main benefits of natural rattan:
Environmental friendliness. It is understandable, natural rattan is one of the most environmentally friendly materials for furniture. It does not pollute the environment neither in the process of palm growing and furniture production, nor during its operation, nor after disposal,
Ease. The rattan stalks themselves are very light, and besides the same palms are used in the frame, only thicker and more stable. As a result, the furniture itself is obtained with a feather weight. And this quality is very useful in operation, since during the spring-summer season you have to constantly wear rattan furniture back and forth.
Why wear rattan furniture? And why do we call it a headache for country house owners? So, we turn to the disadvantages of natural rattan furniture. Sit back, there will be plenty of them!
Absolutely zero water resistance. Even though natural rattan is coated with a special varnish, it swells very quickly from moisture. Accordingly, if such furniture gets even in light rain - write is gone! Therefore, you will have to constantly carry it from the premises to the street and back. This is where its lightness comes in handy!
Ease. Yes, yes, this is also a two-sided medal. On the one hand, light furniture is easy to carry, on the other, it can fall and scatter through the garden from one gust of wind. Well, there is as a result something heavy arrives at it, then such furniture can significantly suffer.
Fragility. Despite the fact that rattan furniture can withstand up to 100 kg of weight, it must be operated with care. For example, carefully sit on chairs or armchairs. Otherwise, when you try to sit down in a big way, it may just fall apart under you. And God forbid, if children decide to jump on such furniture!
Difficulty in storage. Rattan furniture needs to be monitored more carefully than a child. It can not be stored in a hot or too dry room - it will begin to dry out and crack. But with humidity here you need not to overdo it, otherwise such furniture will quickly become covered with mold and fungus.
Does not withstand temperature extremes. Leaving such furniture for a long time on the street even in the warm season, and even more so for the whole winter, is impossible from the word at all.
Not UV resistant. Under the sun, natural rattan quickly fades. So it’s hardly worth sunbathing on such furniture in the garden at noon.
High price. Artificially grown rattan plantations can be found in any part of the world except Russia. But the best raw materials grow in Indonesia and Malaysia, and the best furniture is also made there. Therefore, prices for natural rattan brought from the other end of the world are extremely high.
Too many cons? And if we take into account that we have listed only the main ones here? So rattan furniture manufacturers thought about this and invented in the middle of the last century a magic synthetic rattan that visually resembles natural rattan, but turns all its shortcomings into advantages.
Pros and cons of artificial rattan
Artificial rattan is known by many names. - tehnorotang, polirotang, synthetic rattan and even hularo (but the latter name is popular only in the West). In any case, the material itself is a long thread made of polymers and rubber. Unlike natural rattan, the colors, texture, length and width of artificial material ribbons can be any. However, as a rule, artificial rattan and furniture woven from it looks as close as possible in appearance to natural.
The advantages of artificial rattan:
Amazing moisture and water resistance. You can leave the artificial rattan furniture in the street for at least the whole time of the autumn weather and even for the snowy winter. You will be surprised, but in the spring the artificial rattan will look as if nothing had happened.
Resistance to temperature difference. Keep artificial rattan furniture wherever you want - on the street, next to heating appliances, but at least in the bathhouse! Nothing will happen to him.
Does not fade in the sun. Sunbathe in the afternoon on deckchairs or artificial rattan sofas as much as you like!
More stable frame. In the case of artificial rattan, more massive frames made of wood or aluminum are used.
Withstand more weight. In addition, artificial rattan furniture is not so fragile - you can sit on it with a running start, jump and even dance. In general, do not deny yourself anything.
Are the benefits of synthetic rattan furniture impressive? Let's move on to its shortcomings. It so happened that in furniture made from natural and artificial rattan, the pros and cons have reversed. What are the disadvantages of wicker furniture made of synthetic material?
Synthetic rattan - non-natural material. However, in its manufacture, the most environmentally friendly polymers are used, which do not emit harmful substances and unpleasant odors even with high heating.
More weight. Due to the more massive frame, synthetic rattan furniture is heavier. But this does not matter, you will not need to constantly wear and hide it from rain, moisture or the sun. It would be necessary to transfer such furniture unless, if you wish, to rearrange it.
Furniture from what material to choose for a summer residence
Let's say right away, we do not recommend purchasing natural rattan families with small children and pet owners. Even despite the naturalness and environmental friendliness of the material, in such "extreme" conditions, rattan furniture will not last long. But if you still decided to purchase it, be prepared to change it often or constantly repair it. Which is also not cheap and quite complicated.
We do not recommend natural rattan to those who cannot provide constant monitoring and care for it.. As you already understood, behind such furniture you need an eye and an eye. If it rains, the wind rises, or the bright sun peeks out from behind the clouds, and your natural rattan furniture remains on the street, you can say goodbye to it. It will also fail to lock her up for the winter in a cold unheated country house and leave until spring.
Moreover, every year rattan furniture needs to be coated with a special varnishso that it doesn’t have tree bugs or is attacked by mold. And it’s advisable to clean such furniture with a vacuum cleaner with a special brush or with a dry soft cloth without any detergents.
We are all hands for artificial rattan furniture! Firstly, you can do anything with it. Secondly, it can be washed with anything and anytime. Thirdly, no care is needed for her at all - they bought and forgot. And finally, this furniture can be used all year round as you wish!
Make an artificial rattan chair
First, you will need to prepare the frame of the future chair. It can be done independently or purchased already ready.
Secondly, it is necessary to carry out the installation on the basis of the guides and fix them after using screws, screws, as well as a stapler.
The next step is to trim the protruding rods.
Then, weave on the frame. The result in the end will depend mainly on what material for the chair you have chosen. You can show your imagination and for one piece of furniture you can choose rattan in different colors. The main thing is that they fit together.
After you finish weaving, you will need to cut off excess material with scissors.
As you can see, making rattan furniture is quite simple.
Artificial rattan has many more advantages, as opposed to natural. The first is more rigid, so the furniture frame should be made of wood, steel or plastic. It is worth noting that if in one area the weaving is damaged, then it is possible to dissolve it further throughout the chair.
Artificial rattan furniture will be a wonderful decoration, both in the room and outside, for example, on the balcony. It is very good to decorate with decorative pillows.
