Wicker has been used for a variety of uses throughout the ages. Arguably, the most interesting of which can be attributed to the creation of a wicker man used by ancient druids to cage human sacrifices. The wicker man was set alight and 2000 years later we have a swathe of films depicting the wicker man used in this fashion.
Wicker was used to fashion baskets as well. The ancient Egyptians are well known for doing just this by creating the wicker from a combination of cane or rattan. As we have now progressed to the point of making almost everything in a synthetic fashion, wicker is often made out of various plastics or resins.
A common use for wicker now is in the production of outdoor furniture. Outdoor (wicker) furniture is quite attractive and made of not only man-made materials but also cane or thin strands of pliable wood. For the most part however, people have a tendency to stick to polyurethane Outdoor Wicker Furniture because of its ability to last a little longer than the wooden equivalent.
Polyurethane is touted as maintenance free and depending on where you live – it is indeed. If you live in a humid environment however polyurethane wicker has the capacity to build up mold in the crevices. This is relatively easy to clean off with a wet cloth.
Wicker saw somewhat of a revival in the early 20th century and many collectors started taking an interest in antique wicker products. Outdoor wicker furniture that was made out of cane was highly sought after.
Finding well maintained Outdoor Wicker Furniture that is made out of cane is quite difficult however because this form of wicker has a tendency to unfurl itself if poorly manufactured and heavy use makes it susceptible to a variety of other problems attributed to wear.
Modern wicker manufacturing techniques largely combat this however, and wooden wicker is just as viable as polyurethane wicker to a large extent.
Polyurethane is a recyclable plastic which makes it a great product for those of us who are ecologically minded. In fact, rattan is also a sustainable wood as it is generally farmed for the specific purpose of wicker manufacturing. Teak and aluminum is also used as a material for wicker production.
All of these forms of wicker have varying degrees of aesthetic appeal and longevity although it is wise to assume that the modern forms of wicker are likely to last a little longer and require a little less maintenance.
Outdoor Wicker Furniture is another tool at the disposal of those who are looking to spice up their patio or outdoors settings. The pattern that wicker forms once weaved has a natural look regardless of what material is used to manufacture it.
It also has a fairly rich and interesting heritage as a material used in the manufacture of various products for varied uses. It is not as popular as it once was but is still commonly used over 2000 years after it was invented.
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