Classification of Rattan and It’s uses (Center tas dagkoa ug sulat )
Objectives. (Ilain ug cartolina tas dakoa ug sulat)
At the end of the lesson, the student will be able to:
a. Identify the different types of rattan and its role in sustainable forestry.
b. Respect the traditional knowledge system associated with rattan craftsmanship.
c. Distinguish materials and tools and tools use in making rattan products and
crafts.
What is rattan?
✓Rattan is a climbing palm belonging to the family Arecaceae, primarily found in
tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia.
✓Large subfamily of the palm family (Palmae or Arecaceae).
✓ There are around 600 different species of rattan belonging to 13
✓All of the species within the Calamoideae are characterized by overlapping
reflexed scales on the fruit, and all are spiny, a necessary pre-adaptation to the
climbing habit.
✓ Most rattans differ from other palms in having slender stems,
✓2-5 cm (3-2 inches) diameter, o with long internodes between the leaves:
✓Also, they are not trees but are vine-like lianas, scrambling through and over
other vegetation.
✓ Rattans are also superficially similar to bamboo.
✔ Unlike bamboo, rattan stems (“malacca”) are solid, and most species need
structural support and cannot stand on their own.
✓ Many rattans have spines which act as hooks to aid climbing over other
plants, and to deter herbivores.
✓ Rattans have been known to grow up to hundreds of metres long. Most
(70%) of the world's rattan population exist in
o Indonesia,
o distributed among the islands Bomeo,
o Sulawesi, and
o Sumbawa.
The rest of the world's supply comes from the
• Philippines,
o Sri Lanka,
o Malaysia, and
• Bangladesh
Procedures in making Product/ Article made of Rattan
1. Prepare materials: Select rattan and soak it if needed to increase flexibility.
2. Cut and shape: Measure, cut, and bend the rattan into the desired shape.
3. Assemble: Join the pieces using nails, glue, or binding materials.
4. Weave or add details: Weave rattan strips or add decorative elements if
required.
5. Inspect: Check for loose joints or rough spots and make adjustments.
6. Dry and cure: Let the product dry completely before use.
7. Smooth and finish: Sand rough edges, then apply varnish or stain.
Tools and Material use (idako ni siya tas center)
Tools (kani dagkoa sab ug sulat)
Cutting Knife -For cutting rattan to the desired length and shaping pieces.
Shear/ Pruning Shears- Ideal for cutting thicker rattan stems with precision.
Sandpaper-For smoothing rough edges and surfaces of rattan pieces.
Measuring Tape/ Ruler-ensures accurate measurements for cutting and fitting
rattan pieces.
Hammer and Nails - For securing joints in rattan structures.
Drill- Useful for creating holes in thicker rattan for attachment purposes.
Pliers -For bending and shaping rattan, as well as securing binding
Soaking Tub- A container for soaking rattan in water to increase flexibility
before shaping.
Materials (kani pd)
Rattan Stems – primary raw materials used for crafting
Dyes – for finishing
Rattan Peel -for weaving and binding
Classification of Rattan
Calamus : The most common and widely used type of rattan, known for
its flexibility, smooth surface, and durability, often used in furniture and
handicrafts.
2. Daemonorops: Characterized by its spiny stems and tougher texture,
this rattan is typically used for decorative items and traditional tools.
3. Korthalsia: Known for its thick and sturdy stems with a rough
surface, this type is often used in construction and for making durable
products.
4. Plectocomia: Features large and coarse stems, commonly used for
heavier applications such as structural supports or larger crafts.
5. Myrialepis: Identified by its smaller diameter and lighter weight,
suitable for weaving and fine crafts like baskets and mats.
