RATTAN

Rattan, a story of material

Rattan is a climbing vine, harvested mainly in Indonesia, whose long, supple fibre has travelled through the centuries to become a cornerstone of furniture-making and basketry. Its strength lies in a paradox: it bends but never breaks. Skilled hands have long used this quality to shape the curves of woven furniture as well as the finest caning work. At Maison Douineau, we select our canes among several recognised species — Tohiti, Malacca, Manau — to guarantee a material equal to every project, whether raw or already shaped by the weaver's hand.

Our rattan: uses and applications

Our range comes in three main families: raw and peeled rattan, for decoration and whole canes; chair cane, for caning work accessible to all; and woven rattan, available as core and flat oval core for weaving and seat restoration. Looking to save time? Our ready-to-fit rattan webbing simplifies re-caning and antique furniture restoration.

Choosing and caring for your rattan

Your choice of rattan depends on your project: pick a raw cane for a natural decorative look, chair cane for traditional caning, or coloured core for a more creative weave. Our basketry tools will help you work with precision and ease. Before weaving, a light soak in water softens the fibre and makes it easier to shape. Once your piece is finished, rattan withstands time and daily use well: simply keep it away from excess moisture to preserve its strength.

Maison Douineau, sourcing expertise since 1850

For nearly two centuries, Maison Douineau has travelled the world in search of the finest plant fibres. This sourcing rigour lets us offer rattan selected for its quality and consistency, worthy of both craftspeople and hobbyists. Want to go further? Discover our rattan creation ideas in the Vannerie DIY universe.