What's the difference between rattan and wicker?

Ah, the age-old question: is it wicker or rattan? The answer, my friend, is both...and neither. Confused yet? Let me explain. Rattan is a material, while wicker is the style and method of weaving. Wicker can be woven from rattan as well as many other natural or synthetic materials, which is where the confusion often lies. A wicker sofa could be made from synthetic rattan, natural rattan, bamboo, cane, or any other suitable material. So, when you're looking at that lovely wicker set in the store, just remember: it might not be made from actual rattan. But it's still beautiful nonetheless.