What is wicker? Complete explanation!

GBGian Boender·16 September 2024

If you've ever searched for garden furniture, chances are you've come across the term "wicker". But what exactly is wicker? Wicker doesn't refer to a specific material, but rather to a weaving technique that has been used for centuries to make furniture. Today, wicker is often associated with strong, durable materials such as synthetic rattan, perfect for outdoor use. In this blog post, we dive deeper into the world of wicker, from its origins to the benefits for your garden furniture!

Where does wicker come from?

Wicker has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The weaving technique was already used in ancient Egypt to make baskets and furniture. Later, it spread throughout Europe and Asia, where it became popular due to the strength and flexibility of the materials. Over time, wicker has been continuously refined, and today you mainly see it in modern garden furniture, made from weather-resistant materials.

Curious about the difference between wicker and rattan? Read this article!

Properties of wicker

Properties of Wicker: Why It's Perfect for Garden Furniture

Durable and hard-wearing, ideal for long-term use.
Weather-resistant, resistant to rain, sun and frost.
Lightweight, making furniture easy to move.
Flexible and comfortable thanks to the weaving technique.
Low-maintenance; simply wiping with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Available in various colours and styles.
Environmentally friendly if made from recycled materials.
UV-resistant, so it doesn't fade quickly in the sun.
Combines a natural appearance with modern materials.
Scratch and impact-resistant, stays beautiful in busy environments.
Rust-proof, unlike some metal garden furniture.
Suitable for indoors and outdoors, versatile in use.
Shape-stable, it retains its structure despite intensive use.
Comfortable without cushions, but can also be well combined with cushions.
Stylish and timeless, fits with almost any garden design.

Types of wicker

Wicker garden furniture comes in various weaving structures, each with their own unique appearance and properties. Below we discuss the three most common types of wicker:

Flat wire structure: This type of wicker has a sleek and modern appearance. It's made from flat, wide wires that are woven tightly together, creating a smooth surface and a contemporary look.
Half-round wire structure: This structure gives a slightly more robust and natural appearance. The half-round wires provide a more classic, organic look, while still being sturdy and comfortable.
Round wire structure: This is the most traditional form of wicker. The round wires create a woven pattern that looks like natural rattan, giving an elegant and timeless appearance. It feels slightly thicker and more luxurious than flat and half-round wires.

Each type of structure offers its own aesthetics and benefits, so you can always find a style that suits your garden or terrace.

View here our range of wicker garden furniture!

Advantages of wicker

Advantages of Wicker: Why Choose Wicker Garden Furniture?

Weather-resistant: Resistant to rain, sun and frost, ideal for all seasons.
Durable: Lasts for years without wearing or distorting.
Low-maintenance: Easy to clean with a damp cloth or mild soap.
Lightweight: Easy to move and rearrange in the garden.
Stylish and versatile: Available in different colours, structures and styles.
Comfortable: Thanks to the flexible weaving technique, it's pleasant to sit on, even without cushions.
Environmentally friendly: Often made from recycled materials such as synthetic rattan.
UV-resistant: Doesn't fade quickly, even with prolonged sun exposure.
Rust-proof: Unlike metal furniture, there's no risk of rusting.
Shape-stable: Maintains its structure and appearance, even with intensive use.

Disadvantages of wicker

Not always completely weather-resistant: Cheap wicker variants of lower quality may be damaged more quickly by extreme weather conditions.
Can be vulnerable to sharp objects: Wicker can be damaged by sharp objects or rough handling, which can cause the weave to fray.
Not always equally comfortable without cushions: Although it's flexible, wicker without proper cushions may feel less comfortable in the long term.

Final conclusion

Wicker offers the perfect combination of style, durability and comfort for garden furniture. With its weather-resistant properties, ease of maintenance and versatile appearance, it's an excellent choice for any garden or terrace. Whether you choose a modern flat wire or a classic round structure, wicker suits every taste and environment. This way you can enjoy beautiful furniture for years to come that's both practical and stylish!