A Visit to Lombok: Meeting the Women Behind Our Rattan Collection
At Cranfields, we believe that every product has a story, and the best stories are the ones that connect us to the people who create them. Our rattan collection is a perfect example of this connection, crafted by a community of skilled women weavers in Lombok, Indonesia. Nicola recently had the opportunity to visit these artisans, bringing back not only a deeper appreciation for their work but also a sense of the life and culture that surrounds their craft.
Truck bringing rattan to the workshop
In Lombok, rattan weaving is more than just a job—it’s a way of life. The women who create our beautiful rattan pieces usually work from home, allowing them to integrate their craft with their daily responsibilities. There’s no long commute, no rushing to get out the door. Instead, they can weave while keeping an eye on their children, tending their gardens, and preparing meals. This balance allows them to maintain a strong connection to their families and community.
During Nicola’s visit, the women all came together to welcome her, a rare gathering since they usually work individually at home. As they weave, other tasks are woven into their day—literally and figuratively.
Rattan ready for weaving
The Art of Rattan Weaving
Rattan weaving in Lombok is more than just a craft; it’s a time-honored tradition passed down through generations. The process begins with sourcing the finest rattan, primarily from the nearby island of Kalimantan. This rattan, derived from the rattan palm—a type of bamboo—is known for its natural flexibility and durability, making it ideal for creating beautiful and functional items.
A Direct Connection: Supporting Fair Trade and Quality
One of the reasons we choose to work directly with these artisans is to ensure that their hard work is fairly rewarded. By cutting out the middleman, we can guarantee that the weavers receive a fair price for their craft, without anyone taking a cut or pushing them down on price. This direct relationship not only supports the artisans but also ensures that we offer the highest quality products to our customers. We believe that the quality of our collection is a reflection of the respect and trust we share with our weavers.
Nicola recently had the pleasure of visiting our weavers in Lombok, a journey that was as much about learning as it was about expressing gratitude. She arrived with gifts in hand—coloured pencils, books, cake, and fruit for the mums—as a heartfelt thank you from New Zealand.
During her visit, Nicola immersed herself in the world of rattan weaving, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craft and the community that brings our collection to life. It was a visit filled with warmth, connection, and mutual respect, reinforcing the bond between our store and the weavers.
Distributing gifts
A weaving lesson
With shallots in season, many of the women were preparing to take their harvest to market the next day, adding yet another layer to their busy lives.
Bringing a Piece of Lombok into Your Home
When you choose a piece from our rattan collection, you’re not just selecting a beautifully crafted item—you’re also supporting a tradition that has thrived for centuries. Each piece carries with it the care, skill, and heritage of the artisans who crafted it. Our long-term relationship with the Lombok weavers ensures that every item you bring into your home is made with the utmost quality and integrity.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. Together, we’re not just decorating homes—we’re preserving a beautiful craft and supporting the livelihoods of many mothers.
Explore our Rattan Collection.
