Why Wicker Works Well
As most of us already know, wicker fibers are strong, flexible, and lightweight. The plant materials used are in abundance in many tropical countries, and at the same time, cultivation and propagation is done to maintain the supply. Wicker can be considered as a non-wood forest product, since obtaining the material does not entail logging and lumberjacking. Wicker materials are an environment-friendly and very much aid in forest conservation.
The industry provides opportunities for small-scale home businesses in countries where the plants are harvested. Native residents can gather these non-wood forest products with very little equipment required. In many provinces, residents process and weave the products in their homes, which are located close to the forests where they harvest. Selling their materials and products to exporters add to their family income, which is a big help for these villagers.
In the United States, where most of the wicker finishing is done, other alternative materials are used. Synthetic wicker has already been manufactured from resins and plastics. One type is of Poly-Vexin, made of vinyl, and is lightweight, waterproof, and non-toxic. The plastic fibers are also coated with a layer of latex to imitate the texture of plant fibers. Most furniture pieces made from synthetic wicker are woven on aluminum bases, instead of the usual rattan frames. Synthetic wicker is perfect for outdoor furniture, as it is more resistant to extreme sunlight and rain. Also, parasite problems will be a thing of the past, and synthetic wicker will be more resistant to pet damage as well.
Other wicker companies create their furniture from combinations of natural and synthetic material. Rattan frames are sometimes combined with woven synthetic fibers. The introduction of new materials and types has now made wicker affordable and easy to obtain.
As you can see, wicker works well in more ways than one. The production of the wicker furniture we appreciate today paved the way for livelihood, forest protection, and also profit for countries in many parts of the world. Next time you rest your back on a wicker seat, think about how lucky we are that it’s there.
