Rattan Side Table

Two unlikely items combine into a modern take on boho décor: a tray and planter. The former is natural wood, and the latter comes with curved edges and a caged base.

completed rattan side table by white chair
Photo: ENTHRALLING GUMPTION

This idea comes from our contributor Marwa Hayat. She says that rattan furniture can prove costly. That's when IKEA's Kanelstang plant stand caught her attention. "I found it as my ticket to make a rattan side table in total for only forty dollars," she explains. "And this natural tray, just an inch and a half wider, complements the plant stand perfectly."

Care and Cleaning

With gentle treatment, the natural fibers of rattan furniture will look good for years. A table such as this can be kept clean with soap and water using a damp cloth or sponge (and without any harm to the glue as it is waterproof). We like Murphy Oil Soap for treating wicker furniture. And if you're taking the table outside, remember this: Always cover furniture if you intend to leave it outside for more than two or three weeks.

For more ideas, scroll through our entire collection of DIY Home Projects.

What You'll Need

Materials

Instructions

  1. rattan side table step one hands and glue

    Prep the edges of the plant stand for the bonding process by wiping them down with a damp cloth. (This is because the glue is cured with moisture.)

  2. rattan side table step two popsicle stick and glue

    Keeping in mind that while curing, the glue will expand 3-4 times its size; spread a thin layer of glue over the dampened surface with the help of a craft stick.

  3. rattan side table step three hands applying tape

    Set down the tray right atop center of the plant stand, right-side facing up. Place a stack of magazines on top to achieve clamping pressure. Allow the glue to dry completely, or for up to 2 hours. (Optional: As rattan stands are often handmade and not symmetrical, avoid any slipping by further taping the tray to the planter from the bottom.)

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