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28-The Canadian Champion, Tuesday, April 26, 2005 What is Rattan? Rattan is among the oldest natural furniture material in use today. Unlike bamboo, which is hollow, rattan is a solid timber vine that grows in the jungles of Indonesia. What is Wicker? Wicker is a weaving process, not a material. One of the materials used in the weaving process is called rattan core, which comes from the rattan interior. A machine cuts the inside of the rattan pole, into pieces small enough in diameter for the weaving. Due to the nature of this product, splits and discolorations in the rattan poles are to be expected. They even enhance the beauty and uniqueness of these handcrafted products. How is the fumiture constructed The rattan is placed in a steam box which is necessary for bending the rattan and making it more pliable. Jigs are constructed for producing specific shapes. When the rattan is steaming hot, it is bent to fit into the jig. Once cooled, the rattan will remain in that shape. The shaped poles are assembled with straight poles that are contoured to fit joints evenly. Fine Tableware * Giftware * Table Linen * Bridal Registry 227 Main St. E., Milton, Ontario L9T 1N9 Phone 905-878-0050 Toll -free 1-888-400-8664 Fax 905-876-1658 E-mail delacourts@on.aibn.com h IÀî (-7 j' n