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Top 8 weaving styles for Water hyacinth baskets

Top 9 Weaving Styles For Water Hyacinth Baskets Wholesale

Water Hyacinth Baskets

Water hyacinth baskets are made from a natural, fast-growing aquatic plant — water hyacinth which used to be a nuisance to waterways. For the past decade, it has become a sustainable resource for producing various homewares. From dried water hyacinth stalks, artisans delicately turn them into beautiful products with many weaving styles. 

Water hyacinth stalks for weaving water hyacinth baskets when harvested and dried
After harvest, water hyacinth stalks are dried completely before being woven into wholesale home decor products (Photo credit: Rokhak)

There are 8 weaving styles with water hyacinth that are commonly done by artisans in Vietnam. The names indicate how water hyacinth stalks are processed, or how they look after being woven. Generally, from the highest to the lowest production cost: 

  • Rolled weave
  • Twisted weave
  • Rice nut weave
  • Arrow weave = Braided weave
  • Open asterisk = Open hexagon = Open zigzag = Close flat weave

Rolled Weave

Rolled Weave of Water hyacinth baskets and Home Decor wholesale

Rolled weave has the highest production cost in comparison to other water hyacinth weaving styles.

To make rolled weave, artisans first roll water hyacinth stalks around a core (this core includes multiple seagrass strands) into a fine rope. These ropes are then linked together with/without a metal frame to create a product.

Owing to solid, thick features, the rolled weave of water hyacinth is greatly suitable for Storage & Organization items such as water hyacinth baskets, laundry hampers, laundry baskets, storage baskets, storage bins. 

Rolled weave bi-color water hyacinth basket
Rolled weave bi-color water hyacinth baskets
Rolled weave bi-color water hyacinth laundry basket
Rolled weave bi-color water hyacinth laundry basket
Rolled weave black large water hyacinth basket
Rolled weave black large water hyacinth baskets

Twisted Weave

Twisted weave of water hyacinth basket

Generally, twisted weave gets the second-highest production cost. In Vietnam, artisans often twist 2 or 3 water hyacinth stalks together, then craft or sew into baskets. There are many diameters of twisted water hyacinth ropes. 

Twisted weave looks much like rolled weave, but the sharp difference is its smaller rope diameter and a wider range of patterns for products.

Twisted water hyacinth ropes can be woven open or close; vertically or horizontally; in single, triple or quad weave. Water hyacinth products with twisted weave require a metal frame along to retain good shapes.

With various styles and shapes, twisted weave is widely applied in both Storage & Organization and Home Decor items such as water hyacinth baskets, indoor planters, decorative vases, trays, lampshades, etc.

Water hyacinth basket with twisted triple weave
Water hyacinth baskets with twisted triple weave
Open twisted weave water hyacinth basket with handles
Open twisted weave water hyacinth baskets with handles
Set of twisted weave water hyacinth baskets
Set of twisted weave water hyacinth baskets
Twisted weave water hyacinth planter with woven seagrass rim
Twisted weave water hyacinth planter with seagrass rim
Open twisted weave water hyacinth mirror
Open twisted weave water hyacinth mirror
Open twisted weave water hyacinth vase
Open twisted weave water hyacinth vase

Rice Nut Weave

Rice nut weave of water hyacinth basket

Rice nut weave is the third most expensive style of water hyacinth, following Rolled weave and Twisted weave.

As the name refers, two water hyacinth stalks are twinned around, which forms a weave looking like a rice nut. Rice nut weave is not so thick, but exceptionally durable thanks to its strong, tight construction in most cases.

Combined with a steel frame, water hyacinth baskets with rice nut weave will keep their even shape. The application of rice nut weave varies in woven storage baskets as well as diverse home decor wholesale such as indoor planters, trays, wall decor plates, table placemats, vases, lampshades, mirror frames as well as handbags. 

Rice nut weave water hyacinth storage boxes
Rice nut weave water hyacinth storage boxes
Rice nut weave water hyacinth hamper for laundry
Rice nut weave water hyacinth hamper for laundry
Rice nut weave water hyacinth pet bed with mattress
Rice nut weave water hyacinth pet bed with mattress

Arrow Weave

Arrow weave of water hyacinth basket

For most water hyacinth products, Arrow weave often has the same cost as Braided weave.

Arrow weave is another traditional style that local artisans commonly apply for products. Artisans twin two water hyacinth stalks to create this weave that looks like an arrow or fishbone. You might see this weaving style as it’s very popular. 

The arrow weave is coupled with metal frames when artisans use it for water hyacinth baskets, planters or organizer trays. This combination will give additional durability for products while keeping them from deforming over time.

Aside from wicker storage baskets, other home furnishings feature the arrow weave of water hyacinth. They include organization trays, indoor planters, table placemats, lampshades, handbags, shopping bags, mirror frames, etc.

Water hyacinth baskets with arrow weave
Arrow weave water hyacinth tray for organization
Arrow weave bi-color water hyacinth storage cube
Arrow weave water hyacinth wicker mirror
Arrow weave water hyacinth wicker cat bed
Arrow weave natural water hyacinth placemat

Braided Weave

Braided weave of water hyacinth basket

Many people mistake braided weave as arrow weave as their appearance seems identical. However, they’re different in terms of weaving technique and patterns.

The name ‘Braided weave’ refers to the technique of braiding three or five water hyacinth stalks into a rope. Afterwards, these ropes are either woven or sewn into a product.

With this technique, obviously there are so many rope diameters (such as 10mm, 11mm, 15mm, 20mm) and styles of weaving: close/open, vertical/horizontal, single/double/triple weave.

Vietnamese artisans turn braided ropes into a product with or without a metal frame, it depends on the function. Braided weave is widely used in water hyacinth storage baskets, laundry hampers, laundry baskets, bins, handbags, shopping bags, indoor planters, rugs, home decor accents, etc. 

Braided weave water hyacinth baskets mix with seagrass
Braided weave water hyacinth planter / plant pot
Braided weave water hyacinth handbag checkered pattern

Open Asterisk Weave

Open asterisk weave of water hyacinth basket

Open asterisk weave is made by weaving multiple water hyacinth stalks over a metal frame to create asterisk patterns with open holes.

They will allow products to get better ventilation and reduce the risk of developing mold. Metal frames are required for this weave, since without a metal frame, water hyacinth baskets will lose form, and cannot function well.

Products with open asterisk weave will be both practical and asthetic. This weaving style is suitable for water hyacinth baskets, storage bins, laundry hampers, storage trays, and home decor wholesale such as lampshades, lanterns. 

Open asterisk weave water hyacinth laundry basket
Open asterisk weave water hyacinth laundry basket
Open asterisk weave round water hyacinth basket
Open asterisk weave round water hyacinth basket
Open asterisk weave water hyacith lantern
Open asterisk weave water hyacith lantern

Open Hexagon Weave

Open hexagon weave of water hyacinth basket

Open hexagon weave is not as popular as above weaves, yet you might see it in several designs of water hyacinth baskets.

Vietnamese artisans turn water hyacinth into this weave by crossing multiple water hyacinth stalks, so it will create open hexagon holes. The holes are good for these items since they help water hyacinth baskets well-ventilated.

Similar to open asterisk weave, open hexagon weave needs to have a metal frame along to enforce products’ sturdiness. This weave is commonly an ideal option for producing water hyacinth baskets, storage bins, wicker laundry hampers, and decorative trays.

Open hexagon weave water hyacinth storage cube
Open hexagon weave water hyacinth storage cube
Open hexagon water hyacinth storage bins with handles
Open hexagon water hyacinth storage bins with handles
Open hexagon weave water hyacinth tray set
Open hexagon weave water hyacinth tray set

Open Zigzag Weave

Open Zigzag weave of water hyacinth basket

Open zigzag weave is created by weaving water hyacinth stalks up and down over a metal frame in a zigzag line.

Like two above open weaves, open zigzag weave is normally combined with a metal frame to retain good shapes for products, especially water hyacinth baskets and boxes.

The metal frame will enable water hyacinth products to get great sturdiness for storing. In Vietnam, artisans apply open zigzag weave for almost Home Storage & Organization products such as water hyacinth baskets, bins, storage cubes, boxes, trays, etc.

Bone-shaped water hyacinth basket with open zigzag weave
Bone-shaped water hyacinth basket with open zigzag weave
Round open zigzag weave water hyacinth hamper
Round open zigzag weave water hyacinth hamper
Open zigzag weave water hyacinth box
Open zigzag weave water hyacinth box

Close Flat Weave

Close Flat weave of water hyacinth baskets

Here comes another lowest-priced weaving style – Close flat weave of water hyacinth.

This style features a plain weave which have water hyacinth stalks cross up and down each other. To add sturdiness for products, flat weave needs to have a metal frame.

With strong frames, close flat weave is often used for both Storage, Organization and Home Decor products. Particularly, water hyacinth storage baskets, storage bins, boxes, indoor planters.

Flat weave of water hyacinth baskets weaving styles
Set of 3 water hyacinth baskets with flat weave
Flat weave of water hyacinth baskets weaving styles
Round beveled hyacinth basket with flat weave
Flat weave of water hyacinth baskets weaving styles
Two-color water hyacinth basket in Vietnam

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Water hyacinth baskets and home decor are for indoor uses only.
  • Each weave is suitable for certain product lines. The production time and cost differs between weaving styles.
  • There are some weaves that have the same lowest production costs. They include open asterisk weave, open hexagon weave, open zigzag weave and close flat weave.
  • The exact prices depend much on product specifications, not just on weaving styles.
  • A water hyacinth product can have mixed weaves such as: Twisted weave x Braided weave, Rice nut weave x Flat weave, Flat weave x Braided weave, Open asterisk weave x Arrow weave, etc. 

>> Read more: Six Weaving Styles for Seagrass Storage Baskets

Water hyacinth three-compartment storage bin features arrow weave.
Water hyacinth three-compartment storage bin features arrow weave.

For your reference, below is our Water Hyacinth Homeware Collection 2022 that includes a wide range of wicker homewares made from sustainable water hyacinth. Kindly download and send us request for quotations if you are interested!

Wicker Laundry Hampers wholesale made in Vietnam

3 Natural Materials For Wicker Laundry Hampers Wholesale In Vietnam

Wicker laundry hampers (often called as laundry baskets) are not only practical for laundry storage, but also for decorating interiors. According to Export Data 2021 from Vietnam Customs, top 3 natural materials of exported homewares are water hyacinth, seagrass, rattan. They’re popularly used in producing laundry hampers, let’s see why they are good fits.

Water Hyacinth

Water hyacinth is among quality fibers for making homewares in general and wicker laundry hampers in particular. In 2021, water hyacinth exports had the largest volume amongst natural homewares exported from Vietnam. This is preferred by consumers in the U.S, Australia, Canada and many European markets.

Twisted water hyacinth wicker laundry hampers
Wicker laundry hampers with twisted weave of water hyacinth

Why is water hyacinth ideal for making wholesale hampers? Thanks to its physical property: Long, spongy stalks (stems). The dried stalks are super durable, with a unique honey brown. Water hyacinth hampers feature very strong structure for up to 60-liter storage and earthy tones to match any decor.

Here are several weaving styles of water hyacinth for durable, decorative wicker laundry hampers.

Rolled weave of Water-hyacinth

This weave is made by rolling water hyacinth around a core (it consists of multiple seagrass strands), in order to form a thick structure with a metal frame. Of all weaves of water hyacinth, it has the highest production cost because it requires producers to use a lot of materials. In addition, it takes weavers harder effort than other weaving styles, which means more labor cost. 

The combination of materials: water hyacinth, seagrass and a metal frame will create a thick, tight and strong weave — truly suitable for wicker laundry hampers to store a large amount of clothing.

Twisted weave of Water-hyacinth

Twisted ropes are created by twisting 2-3 stalks of water hyacinth together. These ropes are super solid, so wicker laundry hampers will be practical storage solutions for a long time. During production, this twisted weave is coupled with a metal frame so that the hampers are strong and well-shaped enough.

Twisted water hyacinth woven laundry hamper
Twisted water hyacinth woven laundry hamper
Triple weave twisted water hyacinth laundry hamper
Triple weave twisted water hyacinth laundry hamper
Twisted water hyacinth open weave laundry hamper
Twisted water hyacinth open weave laundry hamper

Rice nut weave of Water-hyacinth

Rice nut weave is a traditional weaving style of twining water hyacinth stalks. Since the stalks are spongy and have a quite large diameter (larger than seagrass), they make each weave look like a rice nut

Rice nut weave can be made without using a metal frame. Yet for wicker hampers, this weave is required to have a metal frame for added durability. It helps hampers become sturdier, and minimizes the chance of deformation due to the heavy load of clothing.

Rice nut weave water hyacinth wicker laundry hamper
Rice nut weave water hyacinth wicker laundry hamper
Cat-shaped wicker hamper with rice nut weave water hyacinth
Cat-shaped hamper with rice nut weave water hyacinth
Rectangular hyacinth wicker laundry hamper with rice nut weave
Rectangular hyacinth laundry hamper with rice nut weave

Arrow weave of Water-hyacinth 

Arrow weave is another traditional style that local artisans mainly apply for water hyacinth products, particularly wicker laundry hampers. Artisans create this weave with two water hyacinth stalks, and it looks like an arrow or fishbone. 

You may see the arrow weave in many homewares such as table placemats or storage baskets, that’s very popular. Similar to rice nut weave, arrow weaves are combined with metal frames to make hampers durable and not likely to deform over time.

Arrow weave water hyacinth round hamper with lid
Large laundry hamper with arrow weave water hyacinth
Large laundry hamper with arrow weave water hyacinth
Arrow weave water hyacinth round hamper

Other Open weaves of Water-hyacinth

Besides above styles, there are open weaves with water hyacinth stalks that are suitable for making wicker laundry hampers. They all need to be combined with a metal frame for sturdiness; otherwise, the hampers will deform due to carrying heavy loads of laundry. These weaves’ production cost are often the lowest.

Open weave water hyacinth wicker hamper with ZIGZAG patterns
Open weave water hyacinth laundry hamper also baskets with HEXAGON patterns
Open weave water hyacinth hamper with ASTERISK patterns (PC: BestChoice Product)

>> READ MORE 9 Weaving Styles For Water Hyacinth Baskets & Homewares

Seagrass

Seagrass is an eco-friendly material that has been popularly used for wicker hamper production in Vietnam. In 2021, seagrass product exports are the second Seagrass homewares are loved in international markets, especially European countries such as German, France, Spain and Sweden.

Thinner than water hyacinth, yet seagrass is highly durable and not easily worn out or broken. So rest assured, seagrass laundry hampers can function well for years and years. Its natural brown tone can easily fit in various styles such as Boho, Rustic, Farmhouse, Mid-century and Scandinavian.

Not all seagrass weaving styles are a good choice to wicker laundry hampers. Some are relevant, others are not. Below are some weaves of seagrass that can go with wholesale hampers.

Coiled weave of Seagrass

Coiling is the technique of making homewares using seagrass and plastic threads. This technique is suitable for producing wicker laundry hampers, as they will feature a thick, tight and strong structure without the use of metal frame. 

Most noticeably, plastic threads not only join seagrass, but also create a variety of patterns. The more complex patterns, the higher wicker laundry hampers will cost. It’s because local artisans will have to use more kinds of plastic threads, and also put more effort into each item. 

Coiled seagrass weave wicker laundry hamper
Coiled seagrass weave wicker laundry hamper
Yellow coiled seagrass wicker laundry hamper
Yellow coiled seagrass large wicker hamper with lid
Pink coiled seagrass wicker laundry hamper with cut-out handles
Pink coiled seagrass laundry hamper with cut-out handles

Braided weave of Seagrass

Multiple seagrass fibers are braided into a rope, then these ropes are woven into wicker laundry hampers. Not having a metal frame inside, the hampers still deliver high durability, though they can turn deformed over time.

Twisted weave of Seagrass

Twisted seagrass ropes have many different diameters. For making wicker laundry hampers, small-dia seagrass ropes are used for weaving over a metal frame. The plain weave with twisted seagrass helps to bring sturdiness for long-time storage and a rustic, earthy touch to the interiors of your customers.

Twisted seagrass basket also small laundry hamper
Twisted seagrass basket also small laundry hamper
Twisted seagrass basket also wicker laundry hamper
Twisted seagrass basket also wicker laundry hamper
Twisted seagrass wicker laundry hamper wholesale
Twisted seagrass wicker laundry hamper (PC: World Market)

>> READ MORE: 6 Weaving Styles for Seagrass Storage Baskets

Rattan

Rattan is a good option for producing wicker laundry hampers. The strong, relatively flexible nature of rattan is a big plus, as this gives hampers a high level of sturdiness, while adding natural aesthetics for decoration in the house. Rattan is getting popular in many markets such as European countries (Germany, UK), Australia, Korea, Japan.

Not pliable like seagrass and water hyacinth, rattan stem/cane is solid, and that’s why some rattan weaving styles requires more processing in production.

When regards to weaving laundry hampers, local producers can use either rattan core or rattan peel/bark. Below are popular weaving styles that have been commonly applied in Vietnam.

Coiled weave of Rattan core

Coiled weave of large-diameter rattan core — this is considered the most expensive weaving style among all rattan laundry hampers. That’s because this style requires a lot of weavers’ efforts and time. In addition, large strands of rattan core need some technical process before the weaving stage.

Coiled rattan tapered laundry hamper wholesale
Coiled rattan tapered laundry hamper (PC: Rattan & Wicker)
Brown round rattan wicker laundry hamper
Brown round rattan wicker laundry hamper (PC: Amara)
White round rattan laundry hamper with lid
White rattan laundry hamper with lid (PC: Kouboo)

Large-dia Rattan Core weave

With rattan cane or large strands of rattan core (diameter: 4-5mm or 7-8mm), local artisans also curve and turn them into decorative wicker hampers. They can be made in either close or open weave. Like the above coiled weave of rattan, this style takes significant labor work for processing materials. Thus, the production time is normally longer.

Rattan open weave wicker laundry hamper
Rattan open weave wicker laundry hamper (3D Design by Artex Nam An)
Rattan open weave wicker laundry hamper
Rattan open weave wicker laundry hamper
Rattan with coiled seagrass wicker laundry hamper
Rattan with coiled seagrass laundry hamper also basket (3D Design by Artex Nam An)

Small-dia Rattan Core weave

Rattan core is split into small strands, then woven into wicker hampers

For wicker hampers, local artisans in Vietnam also use small-diameter strands (2-3mm) that are split from rattan core. It is a traditional plain weaving style of twinning the strands — you might be familiar with many homeware items such as storage baskets, planters, and placemats.

These rattan strands are often coupled with a metal frame to make wicker laundry hampers get better shape, durability and long-lasting function. 

Round rattan wicker laundry hamper wholesale (PC: CDN)
Rattan wicker laundry hamper wholesale (PC: Kohmaison)
Rattan core weave wicker laundry hamper

Rattan Peel weave

Wicker laundry baskets with the plain weave of rattan peel

Rattan peel (skin) is peeled off from the stem, then processed into long, thin, flat strands. They are woven in a traditional plain weave. In small diameter, rattan peel strands are normally cheaper and more flexible than rattan core ones. The plain weave with rattan peel should be combined with a metal frame for sturdy shapes and structure.

Rattan peel/skin weave round wicker laundry hamper wholesale
Rattan peel/skin weave round laundry hamper (PC: Olli Ella)
Rectangular rattan peel/skin weave wicker laundry hamper wholesale
Rectangular rattan peel/skin weave laundry hamper
Square rattan peel weave wicker laundry hamper wholesale
Square rattan peel weave laundry hamper (PC: IKEA)

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Three popular materials used to make hampers: water-hyacinth, seagrass, rattan. They are only for indoor uses, and should be separated with water as they will get moldy in the damp environment. 
  • Not all weaving styles of a natural material are suitable for wicker laundry hampers. The production costs and lead time between weaves are different.
  • Weaving styles that take longer production time are Coiled Weave Of Rattan Core and Large-dia Rattan Core Weave due to their complicated process
  • You can ask for mixed materials and mix weaves for wicker laundry hampers.
Seagrass material home decor wholesale production process

Seagrass Material: 3 Highlights About Handicraft Production Process

As regarding to wicker homewares, seagrass material would be unmissable. Thanks to its physical properties and aesthetics, seagrass products are . Our article will provide answers to “Why are seagrasses preferred for housewares?” and “How long does it take to produce seagrass material products?”

Why is seagrass material preferred for housewares?

Seagrass (or sedge) grows well in South-East Asian coastal areas. In Vietnam, we mainly use cultivated seagrass from field areas which have previously been flooded by the sea. Seagrass is renowned for its great flexibility and durability. Well-dried seagrass looks smooth and has a light brown color with a greenish tint.

Well-dried seagrass looks smooth and has a light brown color with a greenish tint.

This fiber is the best material for making sleeping mats, bags, storage baskets, planters, trays, and seagrass home decor. Both seagrass and water hyacinth are flexible, but their looks are quite different: Seagrass is thin, smooth with light brown color while Water-Hyacinth is more spongy, porous with warm yellow brown.

Seagrass has light brown color while Water Hyacinth gets warm honey yellow.
Seagrass has light brown color while Water Hyacinth gets warm honey yellow.

>> READ MORE: 6 Popular Seagrass Weaving Styles For Wholesale Storage Baskets

Key things about the production process with seagrass material

The process from sourcing seagrass material to finishing home products is long, complicated and labor-intensive. It involves small/medium-scale growers, collectors and producing companies. Here, we highlight key points that you should know about the production process of seagrass homewares.

Seagrass value chain in Thanh Hoa, Vietnam (Photo credit: Value Chains Study For Seagrass)

Seagrass material is sourced from growers or collectors

Unlike plastics or automotive manufacturing, the production of seagrass homewares generally doesn’t operate in assembly lines. Seagrass is sourced from some specific areas, then collected, processed and sold to handicraft producing companies.

Phase 1: Harvest & Drying (Growers) 

Seagrass is grown by farm households, mostly in the Northern & Central provinces of Vietnam (i.e. Thanh Hoa, Ninh Binh, Thai Binh). The quality of seagrass differs from province to province, even for the same species. Thanh Hoa is the major production area with the best quality seagrass — often distributed to Kim Son, Ninh Binh for producing handicrafts.

Seagrass growers need to cultivate, split and dry seagrass completely before selling it to collectors.
Farmers are splitting seagrass into small strands after cultivating. (Photo credit: Ngason.vn)

Seagrass harvesting requires hard work. Once harvested, split and sorted, seagrass is exposed to sunlight for 3-4 days. Well-dried seagrass strands are durable, soft, smooth with natural beautiful color. Without enough natural drying, seagrass will rot and its color darkens, which cannot be used for handicraft production. 

Phase 2: Collecting & Processing (Collectors)

Dried seagrass are then sold to collectors/processors. They store this material and often use sulfur to prevent molding for a certain time, before selling seagrass to handicraft producers. Aside from split seagrass strands, collectors also sell semi-processed ropes (multiple strands twisted or braided).

Seagrass growers can do processing to make twisted seagrass ropes before selling them to collectors. (Credit: baodansinh.vn)

Seagrass material products are mainly made at farm household level

Weavers actually have two choices of working with handicraft producing companies. They can work as either employees (present at the factory), or sub-contractors. If weavers are sub-contractors, they will be provided with materials by the handicraft producing company and make products at home.

Most weavers are sub-contracts, so handicraft products are mainly made at farm household level.
Most weavers are sub-contracts, so products are mainly made at farm household level. (Photo credit: Nam Dinh online)

A large part of handicraft products are made at farm household level. Once sub-contractors complete weaving, handicraft producing companies will collect raw products and do quality checking, finishing afterwards.

Before the weaving stage, handicraft producing companies need to source materials from seagrass collectors/growers and sub-suppliers. Therefore, the lead time is quite long (40-70 days), and even one month longer if you place orders near Lunar New Year.

Due to the comflex process, the lead time of seagrass decor products is quite long, ranging from 40-70 days.
Due to the comflex process, the lead time of seagrass decor products is quite long.

Products hand-made from seagrass material vary slightly in size, shape and color. About coloring, seagrass material can be either dyed or painted.

  • Dyeing: Seagrass need to be dyed first before the weaving stage, but it is suitable for dyeing with dark colors, and the colors can fade over time.
  • Painting: Paint will be applied on seagrass products after they are woven. Seagrass can be painted with various colors; however, painting on seagrass can peel off quite easily.
Seagrass needs to be either dyed or painted if you want add colors on seagrass decor handicraft products.
Seagrass can be dyed or painted if you want add colors on seagrass products.

Products made from seagrass material need careful finishing and inspection.

Finishing is a crucial step in making handicrafts in general and seagrass products in particular. It consists of trimming, cleaning, gluing (to make products well-shaped and mold-free) and shaping.  

For exportation, the acceptable moisture content of seagrass products is 18-22%. Seagrass products need to avoid defects such as stain marks, uncut weaving, peeled paint, deformed, broken weaving and poor weaving.

A Quality Control is testing moisture content on seagrass placemats at our factory.
Mr. Hong, QC Specialist is testing moisture content on seagrass placemats at our factory.

For specific markets such as the USA, Australia, and some European countries, fumigation is required for seagrass products with the aim of removing pests which may appear in transit. 

Hope this article helps you know about the handicraft production process in Vietnam. It would be useful when you start to source seagrass products from Vietnam and communicate better with wholesale home decor suppliers.

>> READ MORE: 3 Things You Should Know Before Buying Wholesale Seagrass Baskets

Difference-rattan-vs-wicker-cane-willow-Feature-600x390

Rattan vs Wicker, Cane, Willow: Here is the difference between 4 popular terms

Rattan furniture and wicker furniture are the same? Wicker is just all about woven baskets? What are the differences between wicker, rattan, cane and willow? This article will clear the issue around these terms ‘rattan vs wicker’ and help you get updated about each characteristic. Now get started!

Rattan vs wicker: They are not the same

Rattan and wicker are two terms that have been frequently used interchangeably for so long. They are quite confusing. However, rattan vs wicker are not the same. In fact, rattan is a material while wicker refers to a technique of weaving

What is rattan?

Rattan is a palm that grows well in the tropical regions of Africa, Asia and Australasia, especially South and Southeast Asia in which Indonesia is the main area for rattan production. An interesting fact is that rattan grows faster than trees, as well as it is easier to harvest and transport than timber.

Rattan is a fast-growing, renewable palm that grows in the tropical regions. 
(Photo credit: Danviet.vn)
Rattan is a fast-growing, renewable palm that grows in the tropical regions.
(Photo credit: Danviet.vn)

The majority of rattan is collected in the forest. For harvesting conveniently, rattan is also planted carefully in the own garden of local people. In Vietnam, rattan grown in the garden delivers better quality because it is provided with proper care. Therefore, its price is higher in comparison with rattan growing naturally in the forest.

Unlike bamboo which is hollow and unable to bend, rattan has a solid stem — light, durable and relatively flexible. Rattan is used for many purposes such as food, furniture, shelter, and handicraft. In handicraft, rattan appears in various homeware products with extra sturdiness.

Unlike bamboo, rattan is solid, strong, durable and relatively flexible.
Unlike bamboo, rattan is solid, strong, durable and relatively flexible.

What is wicker?

Wicker is a method or technique for making products woven from pliable plant materials. Today, wickerwork is made using natural materials like rattan, willow, reed, seagrass, water hyacinth, jute and bamboo, and also synthetic fibers such as vinyl and resin. In other words, seagrass baskets or rattan baskets are all regarded as wicker baskets.

Natural wicker is known for its strength, durability as well as its beauty and natural comfort. Materials can be the whole thickness of plants (willow switches), or just the cores of rattan (rattan core strands). Made from plants, natural wicker is meant for indoor uses only. It also requires special care and maintenance to keep it in good shape. 

Rattan vs wicker are different. Materials used for natural wicker are diverse, not just rattan.
Rattan vs wicker are different. Materials used for natural wicker are diverse, not just rattan.

Wicker can also be made from synthetic materials, or a combination. Synthetic fibers get nearly the same look as natural fibers, especially rattan and willow. The synthetic wickers are durable and weather resistant, so they are often preferred for outdoor use (“all-weather wicker”). 

>>> See more: The New Wicker Collection – Home & Garden Trends 2022

Cane is actually from the rattan plant

Rattan cane

Cane is actually from the rattan plant. The word “cane” means the stem-section of plants, so the “rattan cane” is the stem of the rattan plant. Rattan canes (also called stems or poles) with large diameters are mainly used in making furniture

Rattan vs wicker: Rattan is a natural material with many applications in homewares
Rattan vs wicker: Rattan is a natural material with many applications in homewares

Rattan cane strands

In manufacturing, the term “cane” also refers to the strands of rattan’s outer skin or peel. Cane strands are smooth, flat, light, and mold-resistant. Cane is extremely strong and durable for making baskets or wrapping the joints of rattan furniture. This is commonly woven into webbing (also called rattan cane webbing) that functions well as decorative additions for homeware items such as woven baskets, trays, furniture

The table is decorated with rattan vs wicker cane webbing on its surface.
The table is decorated with rattan vs wicker cane webbing on its surface.

Rattan core

Rattan stems are also peeled to get rattan cores. These cores will then be split into long round strands for weaving products such as storage baskets, indoor planters, lampshades, or mirror frames. Thin rattan core strands have a matt finish and very strong, sturdy nature, but not as smooth, soft and flexible as rattan peel or willow.

Rattan vs wicker: Rattan is a material with many parts used for making products
Rattan vs wicker: Rattan is a material with many parts used for making products

Rattan and Willow are two different materials

Willow is found mostly on moist soils in cold and temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere (it doesn’t grow in Vietnam). Willow is a popular option for making homewares, especially baskets thanks to its superb strength, flexibility and durability. 

Rattan vs Willow

As regards characteristics, willow features a more soft and flexible nature than rattan, which is easier to be bent and woven. Rattan needs to be steamed before being twisted and bent. Therefore, labor costs for making willow products are much lower.

Rattan strands are rough and matt, while willow has a glossy look.
Rattan strands are rough and matt, while willow has a glossy look.

The look of rattan and willow are quite similar, but you will see differences here. In terms of finish, rattan core strands are quite rough and matt; meanwhile, willow looks more smooth and glossy. It’s because rattan strands used for basketry are already split from rattan cores, so they don’t include shiny peels. In contrast, the whole willow branches are used for weaving, without being peeled.

Hope this article will be helpful for you when choosing suitable materials for your products and communicate efficiently with homeware suppliers or manufacturers. To sum up, rattan vs wicker are not about just one thing, rattan is a material, wicker refers to a weaving technique. Cane is from the rattan plant. Rattan and willow are two different materials with each typical characteristic.

all-new wicker comfort home collection homeware 2022

Comfort Home 2022 – All-new Wicker Collection of Storage Baskets & Planters

Comfortable home decor will certainly not lose relevance in the next few years 2021-2022. With more time spent at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re aiming to have a comfortable, cozy atmosphere for rest, work, entertainment, and daily activities.

Here in Comfort Home 2022, we create new homewares all from natural materials—with basic, earthy colors and simple patterns. They promise to add both function and comfort into the living space without sacrificing aesthetics.

Comfort Home 2022 includes natural products with earthy colors & simple patterns.

>>>Read more: Home Decor Trends 2021 / 2022: A Big Focus On Comfort

Brand-new wicker in Comfort Home 2022

The new wicker in town, that you might never have seen before!

It is exclusively featured in this latest collection Comfort Home 2022 of storage baskets and indoor planters. With this wicker, we use machines to have natural fibres wrapped with plastic strings. That’s how we make every single rope — highly durable while maintaining great consistency.

The all-new wicker is highly durable while maintaining great consistency.

Each rope plays a key role in creating functional yet stylish homewares —from laundry baskets, storage tables, indoor planters, and many others. You can be assured about their quality to be distinctive additions to your brand and your customers’ home as well.

What’s more, the new wicker collection has shorter lead time and more consistency. It’s all thanks to applying technology into our manufacturing process. Since our previous launch, the new wicker has been favored, specifically:

  • 52 samples requested
  • Over 10,000+ pieces sold
The all-new wicker promises to be distinctive additions to your brand and customers.

New material included in Comfort Home 2022

Guess what? We officially include banana-trunk fibers as one of our natural materials.

In Vietnam, the banana industry produces large amounts of organic waste, with only about 20% of the plant being used (the fruit & the leaves) while the rest (banana trunk) is discarded after harvest. We don’t want to waste such promising natural fibers.

Banana fibers wrapped with plastic threads are durable for long-time storage.

After researching and advancing our technique, we finally make use of banana fibres, and they are finally here in Comfort Home 2022, asides from seagrass and rattan!

Banana trunk fibres (or banana fibres for short) look quite similar to water-hyacinth, but they come with better features. Let’s look through several characteristics!

  • Appearance: Quite shiny, pale-yellow to honey tone
  • Extra durability & tensile strength
  • Biodegradable
  • Strong moisture absorption
  • Antimicrobial properties
Comfort Home 2022 embraces the mixed textures of natural materials.

All of our designs in Comfort Home 2022 embrace the mixed textures of materials. Therefore, they have unique and artful vibes, which will bring a rustic, comfortable touch to the homes. Made from natural materials, the collection of storage baskets and planters are also more than safe for long-term uses. Comfort Home 2022 embraces the mixed textures of natural materials.

If you are interested in new breezes of home storage & decor for your brand, feel free to explore our latest collection Comfort Home 2022!

the neutral accents 2021 homeware collection 01

The Neutral Accents – 2021 Homeware Collection brings calm to homes

In today’s modern, fast-paced world, people get overwhelmed and stressed easily. The home is a place to de-stress, relax and feel comfortable. In uncertain times, people put focus on the home, find peace in simplicity from natural materials and neutral, earthy tones (Trend Bible, 2021).

We’re excited to introduce you to our newest homeware collection The Neutral Accents 2021 with new color trends, which will benefit both your business and your customers.

neutral accents new color trends

Neutral colors

neutral colors give calmness homes
Our products give calmness to homes with neutral color variations.

Our homeware products are carefully crafted from natural fibers that were dried by our artisans. That’s why they have neutral color variations and give a warm, calm feel to homes. In addition, when it comes to neutral colors, they can fit perfectly into any décor and existing textures.

Original designs

Here comes our distinctive products that were originally designed by our R&D team. We make full use of trend research, manufacturing knowledge and customer feedback in product design and development. Particularly, our new collection is based on customer insights, so we ensure that these products cater to the market demands.

original designs by artex
The Neutral Accents products are thoughtfully designed by our R&D team.

Cost-effective solutions

In our new collection, we take full advantage of our manufacturing strengths and focused materials. Therefore, we are committed to shorter production time and value-driven prices for your orders. Especially with foldable designs, our products also enable you to greatly reduce shipping costs.

cost effective solutions
We ensure shorter lead time, reasonable prices & lower shipping costs.

If you are also looking for new vibes of homewares, let’s give a try to our new collection The Neutral Accents 2021 to discover interior color trends in 2021 and distinctive products to your brand!

five seagrass weaving styles

6 Seagrass Weaving Styles For Eco-friendly Storage Baskets Wholesale

Seagrass is among top natural materials used for producing homewares in Vietnam. This fiber is mainly applied for Vietnam wicker baskets bulk with various shapes, sizes and styles. Below are top 6 popular seagrass weaving styles for eco-friendly storage baskets wholesale made by local skillful artisans.

Seagrass underbed storage handcrafted in Vietnam baskets with twisted seagrass weaving style

Seagrass Weaving Style

Firstly, an important thing you should know is that Vietnamese producers name weaving styles mainly based on how seagrass is processed before weaving, rather than how the weaving patterns look like. For example, ‘split seagrass’ indicates the type of weaving that uses thin seagrass strands (after being split). These strands are woven in plain style with spokes/stakes being the strong foundation.

We recommend that if you work with Vietnam wholesale home decor vendors about seagrass home goods wholesale, you should use these terms below, which will likely be more understood. You can learn more about Seagrass for weaving in Vietnam. Now dive deep one by one!

Split Seagrass

This is one of the most basic and traditional styles, commonly called ‘coi che‘ (pronounced as /koi che/) in Vietnamese. The seagrass plant is split into long thin strands by machine, then these strands are woven directly into a product, no need for the twisting, braiding, or wrapping process. 

Not having iron frames, split seagrass is not as thick as coiled seagrass, and it can deform over time, especially when put inside with heavy items.

That being said, natural storage baskets with split seagrass are lightweight, soft and tough enough for storage purposes.

To create patterns for baskets, producers need to dye seagrass strands first before the weaving step.  Another way that producers decorate products is to draw or paint — commonly applied to make colored woven baskets and wall decor plates.

Generally, split seagrass has the lowest cost among all seagrass weaving styles since it is mostly plain weave and does not require much labor cost. 

Rectangular seagrass storage baskets with handles
Round seagrass storage baskets with handles
Wholesale seagrass baskets with split seagrass

Twisted Seagrass

In Vietnam, we called this style ‘coi se‘ (pronouced as /koi se/). Twisted seagrass is a sub-material created by twisting multiple strands. These ropes are then woven to make wholesale seagrass baskets.

Aside from many rope diameters, there are various styles with twisted seagrass such as close weave, open weave, plain weave, checkered weave.

Durable and relatively tough, twisted seagrass is used in weaving baskets, and also seagrass storage cubes, carpets, rugs, trays, planters, etc.

Not all split seagrass baskets require iron frames, but iron frames will help baskets get sturdy and in good shape. Wholesale seagrass baskets without iron frames can get deformed, though still durable for storing from small odds-and-ends, toys to books, clothes, fruits, etc. 

About price, twisted seagrass is quoted at higher price than split seagrass because local weavers need to spend more time on trimming for products.

Twisted seagrass for weaving Vietnamese baskets
Twisted seagrass Vietnamese baskets
Hanging seagrass wall baskets with twisted seagrass

>> READ MORE: 3 Highlights about the Production Process of Seagrass Decor Products

Braided Seagrass

Braided seagrass, or plaited seagrass, is named based on how seagrass strands are processed. In Vietnam, it is called ‘coi doc‘ (pronounced as /’koi zoc/).

A braided seagrass rope is formed by braiding multiple seagrass strands, embracing a rustic touch. Like twisted seagrass, producers weave or sew these ropes neatly to create wholesale seagrass baskets.

There are also different diameters and styles of braided seagrass ropes (three-braid or five-braid). With this sub-material, wholesale home decor vendors often make baskets without using iron frames. Therefore, the production time is shorter.

Braided seagrass is mainly for producing baskets, as well as planters, rugs, placemats, trays, lamshapes and shopping bags.

Shallow seagrass basket with braided seagrass weaving style
Vietnamese baskets with braided seagrass weaving style
Vietnam wicker baskets made of braided seagrass

Many braided seagrass baskets are in natural brown color. Local weavers can decorate these baskets by dyeing or painting on. However, with the quite rough finish, the paint on braided seagrass is likely to peel off, particularly if the products aren’t packaged carefully. 

Coiled Seagrass

Coiling is another popular technique for making wholesale seagrass baskets. This is called ‘coi xien‘ (pronounced /koi sien/) in Vietnam.

Local artisans coil multiple thin seagrass strands with colored plastic strings. 

Coiled seagrass doesn’t require iron frames. Yet the style makes a neat, thick, sturdy weave and contributes to the good shape for long-time storage, even when the baskets carry heavy items inside.

You may find coiled seagrass in laundry baskets, storage baskets, baby moses baskets, indoor planters, trays, pet baskets and wall decor plates.

In order to create patterns with this seagrass weaving style, artisans need to use different plastic strings. Moreover, they need to pay close attention to every weave: They coil seagrass and also calculate when to change the colors of plastic strings. The larger baskets are, the clear patterns show. 

White seagrass baskets for plants with coiled seagrass weaving style

Of all seagrass weaving styles, coiled seagrass commonly has the highest price due to material and labor cost. Weavers use lots of seagrass to form thickness, and multiple plastic strings to make patterns. It also takes more time and effort to do with large dimensions, irregular shapes or complicated patterns.  

Wholesale round coiled seagrass basket with lid
Coiled seagrass hamper basket with lid
Seagrass tall basket with coiled seagrass

Pressed Seagrass 

Another popular seagrass weaving style is pressed or flat seagrass. This style is called ‘coi dap‘ in Vietnam, pronounced as /koi ‘zap/.

Once seagrass is flattened by machine to become soft and flat, seagrass strands are woven into wholesale seagrass baskets.

However, these woven baskets may get deformed over time or when they carry a heavy load of items inside because they don’t come along with iron frames.

Soft, lightweight and super durable, pressed seagrass is a good fit to make various products: storage baskets, indoor planters, placemats, shopping bags, etc. A classic sample of pressed seagrass is seagrass belly baskets — can be folded in half when not in use or during transit. 

You might see pressed seagrass baskets with natural color as they’re very popular. Having a smooth finish, wholesale seagrass baskets can be decorated by many methods including dyeing, painting, or attaching some pom-pom, leather, etc.

Wholesale decorative baskets made of pressed seagrass
Black seagrass hamper with lid with pressed seagrass
Wholesale seagrass baskets with colored pompom

Wrapped Seagrass

Wrapped seagrass is a technique of wrapping plastic strings around seagrass into a rope, then weaving or linking these ropes neatly into products. This weave grows in popularity and is similar to the processing method of ‘twisted seagrass’ or ‘braided seagrass’. 

With wrapped seagrass, local artisans often use rattan frames instead of iron frames.

Wrapped seagrass has almost identical look and features with coiled seagrass in terms of thickness and durability. The two seagrass weaving styles are commonly at equally high prices because artisans use lots of seagrass and plastic. However, there are limited choices of patterns for baskets or other homewares.

An alternative for plastic is cotton strings — thinner, more eco-friendly and still tough. Seagrass wrapped with cotton strings add a more delicate, elegant texture to Vietnam wicker baskets.

Large seagrass basket with handles
Vietnamese baskets also table basket with wrapped seagrass
Wicker baskets with wrapped seagrass weaving style

Thanks to its strong structure, wrapped seagrass is applied in many housewares, particularly storage baskets, indoor planters, laundry hampers, and pet houses. One benefit of buying these products is their shorter production time than other seagrass weaving styles of wicker basket bulk. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Six weaving styles for seagrass wicker baskets include Split seagrass, Twisted seagrass, Braided seagrass, Coiled seagrass, Pressed seagrass, and Wrapped seagrass.
  • Not all seagrass weaving styles are suitable for all product ranges. Each weaving style has different production cost and times.
  • The exact prices of a seagrass product need to be re-checked as they depend on not only weaving styles, but also sizes, shapes, patterns, frames, and accessories.
  • In most cases, seagrass weaving styles aren’t mixed together in one product. Seagrass weaves can often be mixed with water hyacinth weaves.
Wholesale storage baskets made of wrapped seagrass weaving style

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