Wicker is a weaving process, and not the name of any single material. Wicker furniture can be made of any natural or man-made material that is pliable and durable enough to be woven into furniture.
The term "wicker" actually refers to a variety of vines, grasses and plants that are woven into furniture. For outdoor furniture synthetic vinyls and resins are used. A similar weaving process is used for both organic and synthetic materials, giving them the same wicker look.
There are four major types of organic materials used for indoor wicker furniture: rattan, reed, willow and bamboo, with rattan being the most popular for indoor use. Rattan is also used in making the frames around which wicker is woven. Furniture made from these organic materials should not be used outdoors, as moisture and excessive sunlight can cause deterioration in these materials.
Outdoor wicker furniture usually has aluminum frames. The aluminum and the synthetic vinyl and resins keep the wicker look, but will last outdoors despite sunlight and moisture.
