FAQs

Q. What are our products made of? 

The majority of our products are made using Rattan, a natural material which is also known as 藤 (Teng), Rotan and பிரம்பு (Pirampu). Rattan is a type of climbing vine that grows around trees in the tropical regions of Africa, Southeast Asia and Asia. South East Asia especially is home to most of the world's rattan population, which supports the livelihoods of many rural communities as rattan cultivation and craftsmanship is their traditional way of life.

Q. What is the difference between Rattan and (Hard)Wood?

Rattan is a fast-growing, renewable vine that is lightweight yet incredibly durable, making it an eco-friendly alternative to hardwood. Unlike hardwood, which typically requires a minimum of 20 years to mature, rattan is generally ready to harvest after 5-7 years. Its flexible nature allows for intricate designs, while hardwood is typically heavier and less adaptable. Both are strong and timeless, but rattan’s lower environmental footprint makes it a more sustainable choice for modern living.

Q. What makes Rattan sustainable?

Rattan is considered a highly sustainable natural material according to the four pillars: environmental, social, economic, and cultural.

1. Environmental Sustainability:

   • Rapid Growth: Rattan matures in just 2 to 7 years, making it a renewable resource that replenishes quickly compared to hardwood, which typically takes a minimum of 20 years to mature
   • Forest Preservation: Rattan grows as a climbing vine in tropical rainforests, often using existing trees for support. Rattan is hand harvested with minimal environmental impact, preserving biodiversity and preventing deforestation.
   • Low Carbon Footprint: The hand cultivation and harvesting of rattan are less energy-intensive compared to hardwood logging, milling, and processing. Additionally, its lightweight nature reduces transportation emissions.
   • Biodegradability: At the end of its life cycle, rattan naturally decomposes, leaving no lasting waste.

2. Social Sustainability:

   • Community Livelihoods: Rattan craftsmanship supports rural communities in tropical regions like Indonesia, providing fair-wage employment and empowering small-scale farmers and artisans.
   • Skill Preservation: The craftsmanship involved in processing rattan fosters traditional knowledge and artisanal skills, which are often passed down through generations.

3. Economic Sustainability:

   • Income Diversity: Rattan offers economic opportunities in regions dependent on forest resources, helping diversify income sources for vulnerable communities.
   • Value-Added Products: Its versatility enables the creation of a wide range of high-quality, durable furniture and decor items, supporting local economies and exports.

4. Cultural Sustainability:

   • Heritage Craftsmanship: Rattan has been used for centuries in traditional furniture and weaving practices, preserving cultural heritage and artisanal techniques.
   • Connection to Nature: The use of natural materials like rattan fosters a deeper appreciation for sustainable living and our connection to the environment.

Q. Why is Rattan expensive?

Rattan is expensive due to labor-intensive harvesting, skilled artisanal craftsmanship, and sustainable production practices such as fair wages and eco-friendly methods. Its durability and timeless design make it a long-term investment. Additionally, rattan production is not as abundant as mass-produced manufactured goods so there is limited availability, and export and logistical costs increase significantly when transporting rattan from native Southeast Asia to international markets like USA and Europe. 

 

Q. Is Rattan durable?

Yes. For centuries rattan has been used worldwide - one of the most famous examples is the Moses basket, named after baby Moses who floated safely down the Nile River. In Southeast Asia, rattan has been a staple for crafting sturdy baskets, furniture, and tools for generations. The Dutch were among the first to export rattan to Europe in the 17th century, where it became a sought-after material for high-quality furniture during the colonial era. Its reliability was further proven during the Victorian period, with rattan furniture gaining immense popularity for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Rattan was revived again in the 1980s as sustainable materials and eco-friendly design flourished in Europe and North America as part of the bohemian and tropical interior trends. 

Q. What makes Rattan suitable for nursery furniture?

Rattan is ideal for nursery furniture due to its strength, lightweight nature, and durability, making it easy to handle while ensuring long-lasting use. As a natural material, rattan is non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals, providing a safe and eco-friendly choice for babies and young children. Its flexibility allows for smooth curves and rounded edges, which are essential for creating soft, child-friendly designs. Additionally, rattan’s breathable properties help maintain air circulation, making it particularly suitable for cribs and bassinets. The timeless, organic look of rattan also adds warmth and charm to any nursery, blending seamlessly with both modern and traditional decor styles.

Q. What makes Rattan suitable for childrens' furniture?

Rattan is highly suitable for children’s furniture due to its combination of strength, flexibility, and safety. Its lightweight nature makes it easy for children to interact with, while its durability ensures it can withstand daily use and rough handling. The natural flexibility of rattan allows for smooth, rounded edges and soft curves, reducing the risk of injury. Additionally, rattan is non-toxic and eco-friendly, making it a safe and sustainable choice for children’s products. Its breathable qualities help maintain comfort, and its timeless, organic aesthetic adds a natural charm to any child’s room, blending functionality with style.

Q. What is the useful life of Rattan products?

The useful life of rattan products can be quite long, typically ranging from 10 to 30 years, depending on factors like usage, maintenance, and environmental conditions. Rattan is a durable material, known for its ability to withstand everyday wear and tear while maintaining its strength and flexibility. Proper care, such as keeping rattan furniture away from direct sunlight and moisture, can significantly extend its lifespan. Additionally, rattan’s resistance to cracking and warping, combined with its natural ability to age gracefully, means that well-maintained rattan products can last for decades, becoming timeless pieces that only improve with age.

Q. How do you maintain Rattan products?

Maintaining rattan products is simple and helps ensure their longevity. Regular cleaning is essential; dust rattan furniture with a soft cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment, and for a deeper clean, wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap solution, being careful not to saturate the material. Rattan should be kept in dry environments, as excessive moisture can cause warping or mold growth—if it gets wet, dry it immediately with a soft cloth. Protect rattan from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause fading and brittleness; positioning furniture away from windows or using curtains can help. Additionally, repairing small damages, such as using superglue to capture loose rattan strands, promptly can prevent further deterioration and extend the product's life. 

Q. Why are some of your products only offered on a pre-order basis?

While we regularly stock our Bestsellers, we offer the rest of our products on preorder basis so that we can better manage production and reduce waste, ensuring that we only produce what is needed. This approach also allows us to offer bespoke, made-to-order designs that cater to individual preferences and needs. Pre-ordering gives our customers the opportunity to secure products before they are available to the wider market, while also helping us maintain our commitment to sustainable practices and high-quality craftsmanship.