This Rattan Cane & Wicker Furniture guide explains the differences, the key furniture pieces, how to style them — and how to identify quality vintage craftsmanship.
Natural fiber furniture has never been more relevant.
As interiors move toward warmth, texture and sustainability, rattan, cane and wicker pieces are becoming essential in both vintage and modern homes.
From sculptural 70s rattan lounge chairs to airy cane cabinets and iconic peacock chairs, these materials bring softness, organic texture and timeless beauty to any space.
1. Rattan vs. Cane vs. Wicker: What’s the Difference?
These three terms are often mixed up, but they’re not the same.
Rattan
A natural climbing palm.
Used for frames, structures, curved forms.
Strong, flexible, durable.
Cane
The outer skin of rattan — peeled and woven.
Often used in:
chair backs
sideboard fronts
cabinet doors
room dividers
Known as Wiener Geflecht / cane webbing.
Wicker
A weaving technique, not a material.
Can be woven from rattan, willow, reed, or bamboo.
So:
Rattan = material
Cane = the skin
Wicker = the method
2. Why Rattan & Cane Are So Loved in Interiors
1. Warm, natural aesthetic
They add softness and lighten heavy vintage rooms.
2. Sustainable
Fast-growing, biodegradable, and low-impact to produce.
3. Versatile across styles
Works with:
Scandinavian vintage
70s boho
Italian 70s
Brutalism (as a contrast)
Minimalism
Coastal interiors
Parisian eclectic
4. Texture = visual depth
Perfect for softening metal, stone or dark wood.
5. Lightweight & durable
Ideal for chairs, baskets, shelving and décor.
3. The Most Iconic Rattan, Cane & Wicker Furniture Pieces
1. The Peacock Chair
A 70s boho icon.
Dramatic silhouette, woven throne-like back.
2. Rattan Lounge Chairs
Curved, sculptural, relaxed — perfect for soft interiors.
3. Cane Cabinets & Sideboards
Airy fronts with cane webbing.
Great for hiding media, tableware or linens.
4. Vintage Rattan Sofas
Often with thick cushions and bamboo-like frames.
5. Cane Dining Chairs
Mid-century styles with woven cane backs.
Danish + Italian designers used cane as a lightweight, airy element.
6. Rattan Daybeds
Perfect for sunrooms, bedrooms or relaxed corners.
7. Wicker Lampshades
Soft, diffused light with natural texture.
8. Plant Stands & Shelving
Practical, decorative, and perfect for vintage lovers.
4. Style Influences Behind the Look
1. 1970s Boho
Free-spirited, eclectic, full of natural textures.
2. Mid-Century Scandinavia
Cane used in light, airy dining chairs.
3. Parisian Eclecticism
Rattan mixed with marble, velvet, brass.
4. Coastal / Mediterranean Style
Light, fresh, breezy.
5. Modern Minimalist Homes
Organic materials soften clean architecture.
5. How to Style Rattan & Cane Furniture
1. Combine with solid wood
Teak, oak, walnut or pine pair beautifully with cane.
2. Keep the palette warm and neutral
Beige, tan, olive, brown, cream, soft terracotta.
3. Add plush fabrics for depth
linen
cotton
bouclé
wool throws
4. Mix with sculptural lighting
Stone or glass lamps balance the natural texture.
5. Avoid overcrowding
Give rattan room to breathe — it shines in light spaces.
6. Use it as contrast in modern interiors
Chrome + cane is unexpectedly perfect.
7. Add plants for organic harmony
Rattan and greenery feel naturally integrated.
6. How to Identify Quality Vintage Rattan & Cane
1. Inspect the frame
Thicker rattan = stronger, higher quality.
2. Look at the weave
Tight, consistent, handcrafted weave = valuable.
3. Check joints & bindings
Wrapped joints indicate traditional craftsmanship.
4. Test flexibility
Quality rattan bends slightly — cheap pieces crack.
5. Examine cane webbing
Real cane has natural variation, not plastic uniformity.
6. Weight test
Vintage rattan is surprisingly lightweight
—but still feels sturdy.
7. Patina
Aged rattan has a warm honey tone.
7. Common Issues & How to Fix Them
Sagging cane seats
Can often be re-woven or rehydrated.
Loose joints
Can be retightened with new bindings.
Dryness or cracking
Treat with natural oils.
Dust buildup
Brush gently with a soft brush or vacuum on low.
Rattan and cane age beautifully with simple care.
Conclusion
Rattan, cane and wicker bring warmth, texture and natural elegance into any home.
They soften modern spaces, complement vintage interiors and offer a sustainable alternative to mass-produced furniture.
Whether it’s a cane cabinet, a sculptural rattan lounge chair, a vintage peacock chair or a simple wicker lamp — these pieces create interiors that feel soulful, organic and timeless.
Natural materials will always feel like home.