How to Paint Wicker Furniture — Problems to Expect + Fixes

This guide helps you decide if painting wicker is the right move for your piece. You’ll learn what to expect and how to map the work from start to finish. It outlines the main stages so you can estimate time, effort, and whether to hire a pro.

Think through the furniture’s use, exposure, and current condition to gauge practicality. We’ll cover material types, prep needs, and finish options. By the end, you should have a realistic plan and a path to follow.

When to Paint Versus Replace or Reweave

Before you grab that paintbrush, step back and assess your wicker piece. Painting’s great for a quick cosmetic refresh when your furniture’s still in good shape but doesn’t match your new decor.

But, if you’re dealing with rotting wood or missing strands, it’s time to replace or reweave, not paint. Paint won’t fix structural damage. It’ll just hide it temporarily.

Another thing to consider is the type of wicker. Natural wicker and resin wicker have different lifespans and maintenance needs. If your piece is falling apart, it might be better to invest in a new one rather than trying to paint an old, worn-out chair.

Scope and Realistic Outcomes

Painting wicker furniture can give it a whole new look, but let’s be real about what you’re getting into. First off, longevity. A well-prepped piece in a protected area might last 5 years or more. Out in the elements? You’re looking at 1-2 years before touch-ups are needed.

As for the finish, expect some texture. Wicker’s not smooth like wood. It’ll show brush strokes and may have a slightly uneven look. That’s okay – it’s part of wicker’s charm!

The material matters too. Natural wicker soaks up paint like a sponge. Resin wicker takes paint better but can crack over time. Prep work – cleaning, sanding, priming – is key to making your paint job last.

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Identify whether you’re dealing with natural or synthetic wicker. Check for a metal frame or visible joins as part of the assessment. Note how many layers of finish or old paint are present and how they look.

Material type affects adhesion, flexibility, and repair needs. Some issues are specific to natural wicker, others to synthetic. This check helps you choose the right preparation and coatings.

Identifying material type (natural, rattan, reed, resin)

The wicker’s material affects how it takes paint. Here’s what to look for:

• Natural Rattan: Light brown, rough texture. Avoids cracking but stains easily.
• Reed/Wood Wicker: Darker, smoother. Holds paint well but can crack if dry.
• Resin/Polyester Wicker: Plastic-like, smooth. Takes paint fine but can fade over time.

Inspecting structural and cosmetic damage

Before painting, check for damage:

Loose joints: Tighten with glue or replace if necessary. Paint won’t stick to loose pieces.

Broken strands: Repair or reweave before painting. Broken wicker shows through paint.

Rot/Rust: Replace affected parts. Rot weakens structure, rust ruins metal frames. Both cause paint to peel.

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Put together primers, paints or sealers, brushes, rollers, and a spray option if you’ll use it. Add cleaners, degreasers, fillers, and PPE like gloves and a respirator. Include sandpaper or a sanding block suitable for wicker surfaces.

Focus on specs that matter for adhesion, flexibility, and outdoor durability. Look for labels that mention bonding to wicker, UV resistance, and moisture tolerance. Verify with the product data sheet or manufacturer instructions before buying.

Primer and Paint Types Explained

Before you start painting, understand the different primer and paint options to ensure good adhesion and flexibility.

• Bonding Primer: Use for bare wicker or previously painted surfaces. It improves adhesion and seals porous materials.
• Acrylic/Latex Paint: Water-based, easy to clean up, and suitable for outdoor use. Choose 100% acrylic for better durability.
• Oil-Based Paint: Provides better coverage and adhesion but has a longer drying time and strong odor.
• Spray Enamel: Convenient for reaching tight weaves, but may require multiple coats and proper ventilation.
• Primer-Paint Combos: Some products combine primer and paint. They’re convenient but may not provide the best results on all surfaces.

Quick rule: Always match the primer to the topcoat type for optimal results.

Start with a thorough cleaning to remove dust, grime, and oils. Use a mild degreasing step if needed and dry completely. Gently scuff the surface to help primer grip.

Remove loose or peeling finish and repair any loose strands or cracks. Secure strands with appropriate adhesives or stitching as needed. Dry fit and test a small area before full priming.

Cleaning and mildew removal

Start by removing any loose dirt with a soft brush. For natural wicker, use a mild soap solution – dish soap works fine. Synthetic materials can handle stronger cleaners like bleach or vinegar for tougher stains.

To remove mildew: Mix 1 part bleach to 3 parts water. Apply with a spray bottle or brush, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. Allow your furniture to dry completely before proceeding – this could take up to 48 hours.

Rinse well with clean water after cleaning. Natural wicker should be allowed to air-dry in a shaded area to prevent sun damage.

Repairing broken strands, loose joints, and rust

For broken strands: Use a matching piece of wicker or rattan to create a splint. Glue it in place with wood glue, then wrap with twine or fishing line for extra support.

For loose joints: Tighten them by wrapping the joint with twine or fishing line, securing it with a dab of wood glue if necessary. If parts are severely damaged, consider consulting a reweaver or replacing them.

For rust on metal frames: Sand off any rust using fine-grit sandpaper. Apply a rust converter to prevent further corrosion, then prime before painting.

Sanding and feathering edges

Use fine-grit sandpaper (120-150 grit) to lightly scuff the surface. This helps paint adhere better. Be gentle – aggressive sanding can damage the weave.

For glossy finishes, use a sanding sponge or fine-grit sandpaper to feather the edges. This blends the old finish with the new one, preventing a harsh line.

Wipe off any dust with a damp cloth after sanding. Allow the furniture to dry completely before priming.

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Choose brushing, spraying, or stippling based on your setup and piece. Brushing gives control inside tight weave areas; spraying covers faster but may require masking. Stippling can reduce runs on textured surfaces.

Plan multiple light passes rather than one heavy coat. Work with a consistent cadence to avoid drips and brush marks. Confirm you’re applying an even layer and letting each coat dry per product instructions.

Spray Painting: Setup and Technique

Spray painting is ideal for large, flat surfaces or when you want a quick, even finish. It’s less suitable for intricate details or tight spaces.

Control overspray: Use low-pressure settings and keep the can at least 10-12 inches away from the surface to avoid heavy droplets.

Masking and ventilation: Protect surrounding areas with painter’s tape and drop cloths. Ensure proper ventilation, either outdoors or in a well-ventilated garage with open doors.

Brushing and Brushing Plus Dry Brush Detailing

For detailed work, nothing beats a good brush. Choose natural bristles for oil-based paints, synthetic for latex.

Brush selection: Use an angled sash brush (1-2 inches) for most surfaces and a smaller detail brush (1/4-3/8 inch) for tight spaces.

Stroke technique: Work in long, smooth strokes along the weave’s direction. For dry brushing, use barely any paint on your brush and gently drag it across the surface to create texture.

Adhesion failures, cracking, and flaking are common when the surface isn’t prepared properly. Sagging can occur with too thick a coat in certain areas. Color inconsistency may show if layers aren’t even or if the substrate shows through.

Fixes include thorough cleaning, proper scuffing, and re-priming on troubled spots. Use compatible primers and topcoats and allow full curing time before use. Check labels for outdoor suitability and warranty notes.

Paint not adhering or flaking

Flaking paint is a common problem, often caused by contaminants on the surface, using the wrong primer, or trying to paint over a flexible substrate like wicker. First, remove any loose paint with light sanding.

Re-prep the area by cleaning it thoroughly and letting it dry completely. Then, use a suitable bonding primer to ensure good adhesion.

If you’re painting over wicker, consider using a flexible paint designed for outdoor furniture. This will help prevent flaking due to movement of the substrate.

Cracking and paint failure with flex

Wicker furniture moves, so it’s crucial to use flexible paints and primers. If you’re seeing cracks or paint failure, it might be due to using non-flexible products.

To fix this, strip the failed coating completely. Then, prep the surface again and apply a flexible primer followed by a flexible paint.

If there are cracked edges, use light sanding to feather them out before repainting. This will help blend the new coat with the old and prevent further cracking.

Drips, runs, and visible brush marks

Drips and runs happen when you apply paint too thickly. To fix this, lightly sand the area once it’s dry to smooth out the surface.

Re-coat with a thinner layer of paint, making sure your brush is well-loaded but not dripping. Use even strokes, working from top to bottom and side to side.

To prevent runs in the future, make sure your paint is properly thinned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Also, use the right brush – one that’s not too big or small for the job.

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Choose a topcoat that adds abrasion, UV, and moisture resistance suitable for outdoor exposure. Check compatibility with your primer and paint. Apply as directed and avoid mixing incompatible products.

Ensure the piece is fully cured before regular use or exposure to elements. Cure times vary by product and weather; verify these on the label or data sheet. Protect the finish from heavy use until it is fully set.

Topcoat options and when to use them

Choosing the right topcoat is crucial for protecting your wicker furniture. Here are three common options:

Clear Acrylic Sealers offer UV protection and moisture resistance, making them great for both indoor and outdoor pieces.

Polyurethane Varnishes provide excellent durability and abrasion resistance but can yellow over time when exposed to sunlight. They’re better suited for indoor use.

UV-Resistant Finishes are designed for outdoor furniture, providing superior UV protection to prevent fading and cracking from sun exposure.

Drying and cure considerations

Proper drying and curing is vital for a durable finish. Here’s what you need to know:

First, check the manufacturer’s guidelines for recommended drying and cure times. These can vary depending on the product.

Next, consider your environmental conditions. High humidity and low temperatures can slow down the curing process. Adjust your timeline accordingly.

A piece is adequately cured when it feels completely dry to the touch and doesn’t leave any residue on your fingers. For regular use, this usually takes 24-72 hours, but it’s best to err on the side of caution.

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Do a pre-paint check for loose strands, cracks, and surface cleanliness. Confirm you can see a uniform surface with no dust or oils. Inspect the weave for any hidden gaps you need to fill.

After painting, look for even coverage, no drips, and consistent color. Run a tactile check to ensure the coating isn’t sticky or peeling. Use these checkpoints to decide if the job is ready for final use.

Post-paint quality checks

After applying your final coat, use this checklist to ensure a high-quality finish that’ll last.

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