|
Cane (rattan) is a climbing palm that is mostly found in the southern parts of Asia. In countries like Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia it is easily the second most important forest produce, after hardwood. Cane can climb for more than 200 meters into the dense treetops of the jungle, holding on to the foliage with thorns.
Harvesting policies by today’s growers allow cutting into the forest for seven years then returning to the starting point by which time the cane has renewed itself. There are in excess of 100 species of rattan palm of which about 20 are suitable for constructing furniture.
 There are in excess of 100 species of rattan palm of which about 20 are suitable for constructing furniture. |
The finer quality raw cane allows the desired shapes to be achieved without risk of cracking. Some cane varieties (eg Batang and Umbula) can grow at the rate of 3 inches per day making it highly sustainable and offering a raw material compatible with today’s demands for environmentally sound goods.
From the jungle the cane (rattan) endures 11 different processes only two of which are mechanical, prior to being made into an attractive item of furniture. To harvest the cane, the stem is cut through at the base and the plant is dragged down from the trees and cut into lengths. The thorns are removed and the cane is then boiled to remove excess sap and improve flexibility, durability and appearance.
At the furniture factory the cane is either used as a whole to act as the main structure of (for example) a chair, or split into strips to be used for the intricate weaving for backs and seats. The final product is then varnished and packed for shipment.
The labour intensive nature of the product provides much needed employment for thousands of workers in the cane producing areas of the world. The intricate skills necessary to produce a woven or shaped product are jealously guarded. Some designs in the range can take several days of dedicated labour by one worker to produce an item.
 Cane is hardwearing and easily maintained making it suitable for a variety of situations in most homes.
Always considered as the number one option for conservatory furniture, it is now growing in sophistication to satisfy the more discerning requirements of today’s interior designs. Favored in both traditional and contemporary environments the stylish designs combine well with almost any accessory. It is hardwearing and easily maintained making it suitable for a variety of situations in most homes.
|
|
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 06 December 2006 )
|
