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DIY Idea: 8 Economical Rattan Projects

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DIY Idea: 8 Economical Rattan Projects

August 21, 2023

This week we’re revisiting some of the most popular DIY stories from our archives. Read on for end-of-summer project inspiration:

Phase Two of the now raging Rattan Revival: crafty sorts the world over are making use of readymade rolls of woven cane, Ikea furniture, and other basics to create their own take on the trend. Here are eight standout projects, all easy enough to tackle yourself (or to get a handy someone to make for you).

N.B.: Cane is a part of the fast-growing rattan plant; we use the two terms here interchangeably.

Headboard

copenhagen based interior stylist and writer caroline bahrenscheer of the blog  17
Above: Copenhagen-based interior stylist and writer Caroline Bahrenscheer of the blog September Edit created this floating Rattan Headboard for her own bedroom.

As a frame, Caroline used Ikea’s Ivar Side Unit—a support for pine shelving that comes in several sizes starting at $10. She finished it with pre-woven cane that she cut to size, soaked in water to make it malleable, and stapled on. For cane sources, see Frank’s Cane and Rush Supply, The Caning ShoppeVan Dyke’sJoanne, and Michael’s, among others. Photograph courtesy of September Edit.

Side Table

discovered via hunker: caroline burke of burkatron&#8\2\17;s from blah to b 18
Above: Discovered via Hunker: Caroline Burke of Burkatron’s From Blah to Boho Bedside Table made using Ikea’s $19.99 Nesna nightstand. Caroline’s simple trick: she glued Cane Webbing purchased on Amazon to the underside of the glass shelves that come with the table. (We recommend replacing the standard-issue screws with better looking ones in brass or a black finish.) Photograph by Caroline Burke of Burkatron courtesy of Hunker.

Storage Cabinets

another ikea hack by caroline bahrenscheer of september edit was inspired  19
Above: Another Ikea Hack by Caroline Bahrenscheer of September Edit was inspired by Ikea’s discontinued Stockholm 2017 Cabinet. Using wood glue and brass tacks, Caroline simply applied cut-to-fit rattan and Ikea Edvalla Drop Pulls (two for $6.99) to the doors of the solid pine Ivar cabinet, $70. Photograph courtesy of September Edit.
last year, as part of the billy bookcase&#8\2\17;s 40th anniversary celebra 20
Above: Last year, as part of the Billy bookcase’s 40th anniversary celebration, Ikea asked creatives to come up with new uses for the design. Interior designer Kathryn Hawkes of House of Hawkes in Dubai responded by hunting down a roll of rattan and, working with her carpenter, affixing rattan to the existing doors and painting the piece. She calls it Billy 2.0. Photograph courtesy of House of Hawkes.

Sideboard

kathryn of house of hawkes was so pleased with her billy hack (shown above) tha 21
Above: Kathryn of House of Hawkes was so pleased with her Billy hack (shown above) that she and fellow Dubai-based interior designer Linda Dekkers recently launched Fronteriors, a collection of doors, tops, and sides sold as upgrades for Ikea furniture frames. Shown here, their Besta Cane Doors in beige. Caveat: they currently only ship within the Middle East/Gulf region.

Magazine/Mail Rack

antonia schmitz of craftifair, in cologne, germany, built this diy wooden magaz 22
Above: Antonia Schmitz of Craftifair, in Cologne, Germany, built this DIY Wooden Magazine Holder from scratch. Scroll to the end of our roundup to see Antonia’s materials. Photograph courtesy of Craftifair.

Kitchen Cabinets

interiors stylist/designer minna jones came up with these pine framed rattan ca 23
Above: Interiors stylist/designer Minna Jones came up with these pine-framed rattan cabinet doors for a bespoke kitchen in Helsinki, Finland, by Blau Interiors. (The wall light is the Mini Lampe de Marseille, a Le Corbusier design made by Nemo.) Photograph by Mikael Pettersson.

Sliding Door

in another blau interiors project, a 3\2\2 square foot apartment in helsinki, m 24
Above: In another Blau Interiors project, a 322-square-foot apartment in Helsinki, Minna Jones designed a rattan and ash sliding door to separate the bedroom from the kitchen. Photograph by Mikael Pettersson.
the materials for craftifair&#8\2\17;s magazine rack (shown above). for a r 25
Above: The materials for Craftifair’s magazine rack (shown above). For a range of pre-woven cane webbing and advice on its uses, go to The Caning Shoppe of Cambridge, MA.

Peruse our archive for more DIY projects, including:

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Frequently asked questions

What are some easy DIY cane furniture upgrades?

Some easy DIY cane furniture upgrades include adding a coat of paint, replacing the cane with a different material, adding cushions or upholstery, and incorporating other materials like leather or fabric.

Where can I find cane furniture for these DIY upgrades?

You can find cane furniture for these DIY upgrades at stores like IKEA, thrift shops, online marketplaces, or even in your own home. Look for chairs, tables, cabinets, or any other furniture pieces with cane elements.

Do I need any special tools or skills to upgrade cane furniture?

While some DIY upgrades may require basic tools like paintbrushes, screwdrivers, or staple guns, most projects can be completed with minimal skills and tools. Follow tutorials or guides specific to the upgrade you're interested in.

Can I paint cane furniture?

Yes, you can paint cane furniture. It's recommended to clean the surface thoroughly, apply a primer if needed, and use spray or brush-on paint suitable for the material. Choose a color that complements your overall design aesthetic.

What other materials can I use instead of cane?

Instead of cane, you can use materials like rattan, wicker, bamboo, or even synthetic alternatives. These materials can be woven or attached to furniture frames to achieve a similar aesthetic.

Can I add cushions or upholstery to cane furniture?

Yes, adding cushions or upholstery to cane furniture can provide extra comfort and style. Measure the dimensions of the seat or backrest, choose a suitable foam or padding, and cover it with fabric or leather of your choice.

Where can I find tutorials or guides for specific DIY cane furniture upgrades?

You can find tutorials or guides for specific DIY cane furniture upgrades on websites, blogs, or YouTube channels dedicated to crafts, home decor, or furniture renovations. Search for keywords like 'DIY cane furniture upgrade' or 'cane furniture hack.'

Are there any safety precautions I should consider?

When upgrading cane furniture, consider safety precautions such as wearing protective gloves, goggles, or masks when working with certain tools or materials. Follow manufacturer instructions for any chemical products used during the process.

Can I combine cane furniture upgrades with other IKEA hacks?

Absolutely! Cane furniture upgrades can be combined with other IKEA hacks to create unique and personalized pieces. Explore different DIY projects and let your creativity flow to transform your furniture.

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