Did you know that the same rattan used to make chairs is also used to make the canes that some countries use to whip (or "cane") prisoners as punishment?

It's true. So...why would you want to sit on something so painful? Of course, sitting in a rattan chair does not hurt as much as being whipped by a rattan cane, but the chairs can still be uncomfortable. They can pinch, tug at clothing, and feel quite lumpy.

Yet, rattan makes such beautiful chairs. What to do?

Cushions, of course!

Almost anywhere that rattan chairs are used in public places, such as restaurants, you will notice very thick cushions on the seats. In fact, many people add cushions to the backs as well.

Rattan Chair Cushions

When buying cushions for any type of wicker chair, the first thing to consider is thickness. Thin cushions will not be enough, or you will still feel the 'lumpiness' of the chair through the cushion. Also, examine what the cushion is made of, and if it has 'buttons' or not. Some cushions are designed to be thick, but actually are lumpy themselves.

The next thing is to determine whether or not you will want a cushion for the seat back. Some users even like to have the small cushions for the armrests, especially for chairs that will be used outside, as the dark colored wood can become quite hot in the sun against the skin.

Two last considerations for cushions that will be used outdoors: weight and water-resistance. Obviously if you are using cushions outdoor you want it to not absorb water. But many cushions designed specifically for rattan or wicker are made to be extra-heavy so that they do not blow away (and even hold down the light-weight chairs).