Framed to Perfection - Wicker Covers and Frames

The frames of wicker, also known as cane or rattan, furniture is usually made from palm trees from sustainable sources in South East Asia. Stems are cut, dried and left whole to be used as the furniture’s frame, or cut into strips to be woven to form the seat, back and arms of a chair,

Choosing wicker furniture gives you the opportunity to opt for a plain weave or to consider more intricate work on panels, arms or in the body of the furniture. Some chairs are closely woven, while others form diamond patterns or far more complex designs.

The finish of the frame also gives a range of choices, do you prefer a natural look, or one that has some colour to compliment other pieces in the room?

The stain used on the frame can range from a light shade through to a dark rich browns. Then you may prefer the colour wash giving a hint of green, ivory or blue as the most usual options.

Well Just About Any Pattern You Chose!

Most cane, rattan or wicker furniture has cushions and covers made from either cotton or chenille - as these should be hard wearing.

When it comes to the choice of patterns (or plain) good companies should give you the option to have whatever is in their range made to fit the suite you chose.

Ask for a swatch of the fabrics you like to take home and see how they will compliment the rest of the décor.

Colours extend from mute to vibrant - with stripes, checks, floral or random patterns. It is the opportunity for you to make your personal statement. Teamed with cushions to blend or accentuate your colour scheme - they can be a suites crowning glory.

Points to watch for:

• Is the material clearly labelled as being fire retardant - it has to be to comply with British standards

• Can the covers be removed easily for washing or dry cleaning

• As materials fade in sunshine, it is a good idea to cover them when not in use

• Turn cushions to prevent fading, and

• Ask if the material has been UV treated to protect against sunlight.