Painting wicker outdoor furniture can completely transform old, worn pieces and help protect them from further damage. With some preparation and the right materials, you can easily freshen up patio furniture sets for a fraction of the cost of buying new. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the steps for properly painting wicker to get a beautiful, long-lasting finish.
Materials Needed for Painting Wicker Furniture
Painting wicker requires just a handful of supplies from your local hardware store:
- Exterior paint – Latex acrylic paint works best for flexibility. Opt for paint marketed specifically for outdoor use.
- Paintbrush – Use high quality bristle brushes in a variety of sizes.
- Paint roller and tray – Choose a roller with a smooth nap for the best finish on wicker.
- Drop cloths – Canvas drop cloths protect your work area from drips and spills.
- Painters tape – Mask off areas you don’t want painted.
- Sandpaper – Lightly sand glossy wicker to help paint adhere.
- Tack cloth – Remove dust before painting for best results.
- Rags – Have some on hand for wiping away excess paint and drips.
- Primer/sealer – Priming ensures paint sticks and protects the wicker.
- Metal parts cleaner – Special cleaner removes rust from metal joints.
- Gardening gloves – Protect your hands while prepping and painting.
Gather all materials and prep your workspace before starting to paint. This will allow the project to run smoothly from start to finish.
Preparing Wicker Furniture for Painting
Proper prep is crucial for getting great results painting wicker. Follow these steps to ensure the new paint adheres and lasts.
1. Clean the Wicker
Remove any dirt, grime, mildew or old flaking paint from the wicker using a strong jet from your garden hose. A pressure washer on a low setting can help blast away built-up debris.
Use a scrub brush and mild detergent if needed to remove stubborn spots. Let the wicker dry completely before moving onto sanding.
2. Lightly Sand Glossy Finish
If your wicker has an existing glossy finish, scuff sand it lightly using 120 grit sandpaper. This helps the new paint bond properly. Avoid sanding down to the bare wicker.
3. Wipe Away Dust
Use a tack cloth to remove any dust left over from sanding. This ensures your paint job will have a smooth finish.
4. Remove Rust from Metal Parts
Many wicker sets have metal joints that can rust over time. Scrub any rusty areas with a metal parts cleaner and a stiff brush. Rinse thoroughly.
Apply primer meant for metal on bare joints for added protection. Allow to dry before painting.
5. Apply Primer
Once prepped, apply a coat of high quality primer formulated for outdoor use. Primer helps the paint better adhere to the wicker material.
Use a brush to work primer into all crevices. Then use a roller for large flat areas. Allow the primer to fully dry per manufacturer directions before painting.
6. Lightly Sand Primer
For super smooth results, do one final light sanding over the primer using 220 grit sandpaper. Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth.
Now the wicker is prepped and ready for your topcoat of paint. Be sure to work in a well ventilated area and wear gloves during all steps.
How to Paint Wicker Furniture
Follow these simple steps for flawless results painting your wicker chairs, tables, rockers and more:
1. Mask Off Areas
Use painter’s tape to cover any fabric or cushions you don’t want painted. Also mask off any adjacent walls or surfaces.
2. Apply First Coat
Stir the paint thoroughly before starting. Use an angled brush to paint wicker details and crevices. Then quickly roll over large flat sections.
Paint in long, smooth strokes while maintaining a wet edge to prevent lap marks and brush strokes. Work systematically from top to bottom.
3. Let First Coat Dry
Allow paint to dry completely, checking manufacturer directions for dry times. Drying may take 2-6 hours between coats.
4. Sand and Wipe Away Dust
Once dry, give the first coat a very light sanding using extra fine (220-400 grit) sandpaper. This smoothes any texture from the wicker weave.
Wipe away all dust with your tack cloth so it doesn’t gum up the second coat.
5. Apply Second Coat
For the best coverage, apply two thin coats rather than one thick one. This ensures an even color without drips or runs.
Repeat your painting method from the first coat. Work top to bottom and maintain a wet edge to prevent lap marks.
6. Remove Tape and Reattach Cushions
After the final coat dries completely, carefully remove all painters tape. Reattach any fabric cushions or upholstery.
7. Allow Paint to Fully Cure
Though dry to the touch in a few hours, painted wicker will continue to cure and harden for several days. Allow new paint to cure for at least 3 days before placing furniture outside.
And that’s it! With a few supplies and some easy prep, you can give tired wicker a makeover with fresh new paint. Follow proper technique for smooth, durable results.
Tips for Painting Wicker
Follow these pointers to ensure your painted wicker looks its best and holds up over time:
- Always work in a dust-free area to prevent debris in the wet paint.
- Opt for paint with built-in primer when possible to streamline the process.
- Use a nylon/poly or angled sash brush to get into wicker crevices.
- Apply paint liberally to fully saturate the wicker material.
- Work methodically and maintain a wet edge to prevent lap marks.
- Let each coat fully dry before adding the next for proper adhesion.
- Lightly sand between coats for a perfectly smooth finish.
- Use painter’s tape for sharp edges around metal joints. Remove before paint dries.
- Add a clear sealer as a topcoat for extra protection and durability.
- Avoid painting in direct sun, hot temperatures, or high humidity.
- Work underneath wicker furniture so drips don’t mar finished top coat.
- Wear gloves and ventilate workspace to minimize exposure to fumes.
Following these simple tips will help you achieve professional looking results. Take your time prepping and applying paint for furniture that looks great for seasons to come.
Paint Colors for Wicker Furniture
When selecting a paint color for wicker furniture, lighter tones work best to maintain the natural look and feel. Here are some great color options:
White
A crisp white is a classic choice that brightens up wicker while still allowing the woven texture to show through. White also makes furniture pop against colorful cushions.
Light Gray
Subtle gray creates a more neutral palette but still lets the wicker details stand out. Gray gives a more modern feel.
Beige
For furniture that will fit with a coastal aesthetic, beige is a great choice. The warm neutral tone enhances wicker’s organic look.
Light Blue
A soft robin’s egg blue adds a pretty pop of color while maintaining a classic wicker finish. It also complements outdoor palette.
Green
Olives, sages and other muted greens complement outdoor spaces. Green also hide dirt well, making it ideal for frequently-used pieces.
Yellow
Cheerful pastel yellows bring the sunshine. This happy hue looks fresh on wicker and doesn’t overpower the material’s natural pattern.
Stick with light, muted versions of these popular paint colors to highlight wicker texture. For a bolder look, use deeper shades on chair cushions instead of the frames.
How to Paint Different Types of Wicker
Wicker comes in a variety of natural materials, each requiring slightly different prep and painting technique:
Rattan Wicker
The most common type, rattan has a varied weave with slight texture. Use a nylon/poly brush pushed into crevices.
Reed Wicker
Flat, stiff reed leaves little texture. Paint flows easily over the smooth surface. Watch for drips.
Bamboo Wicker
With an open, flat weave, bamboo needs extra coats for coverage. Use primer/sealer for protection.
Willow Wicker
Extremely textured with a variegated pattern. Stiff bristle brush reaches deep crevices.
Banana Bark Wicker
Less porous than other wickers. Requires less paint but prime first for adhesion.
Synthetic Wicker
Materials like resin weave smoothly. Use light coats to avoid pooling in indentations.
Do a test paint swatch to ensure your paint adheres well before fully coating each type of wicker. Adjust your technique as needed.
Painting Wicker Chair Seats
Many wicker chairs have separate woven seats that attach to the frame. Since these receive the most wear, painting them can really freshen the look.
What You’ll Need
- Drop cloth
- Tack cloth
- Paintbrush
- Exterior paint
- Piece of cardboard (for underneath)
How to Paint
- Remove seat from chair frame if possible. Otherwise mask frame.
- Place seat on cardboard to catch drips underneath.
- Follow prep and paint steps above. Apply primer first if needed.
- Use a stiff, bristle brush to push paint into woven crevices.
- Work carefully where seat wraps around edges. Let dry fully.
- Apply a second coat for full coverage, getting into crevices.
- Allow paint to cure for extra durability before reattaching seat.
Painting just the seat can give worn chairs a brand new look in much less time. Add a pop of color for extra fun!
How to Dry Brushes Between Coats
When painting wicker projects that require multiple coats, you’ll need to keep brushes usable overnight or between sessions. Here are some options:
- Plastic Wrap – Wrap brush heads tightly in plastic wrap. Works for 3-4 day max.
- Freezer Bag – Seal brush in a plastic freezer bag, pressing out excess air. Keeps up to 5 days.
- Brush Keeper – Specialty canisters sold at paint stores keep air out. Lasts many weeks.
- Coating with Paint – Coat bristles in paint and wrap in plastic. The paint keeps bristles supple.
- Stand in Water – Submerge brush in water, with bristles up. Change water daily to keep fresh.
- Brush Cleaner – Special soaking solutions sold with paint cleanup products keep brushes useable for days.
- Baby Oil – Soak brush in mineral oil to prevent paint from drying out bristles.
Whatever method you choose, make sure no paint remains in the ferrule (metal part where bristles meet handle). This can break down glue and loosen bristles over time. Always fully rinse brushes before storing.
Should You Use a Paint Sprayer for Wicker?
Though fast and efficient, airless paint sprayers have some downsides for wicker projects:
- Difficult to fully saturate wicker crevices and angles. Can leave thin coverage or missed spots.
- Overspray can create mess on nearby surfaces you don’t intend to paint.
- Paint drips off wicker easily before drying, marring surfaces below.
- Have to thin paint, reducing durability of top coat.
- Machine must be thoroughly cleaned to prevent dried paint from damaging it.
For these reasons, sprayers are best reserved for large wicker sets or surfaces without intricate details. A brush still provides superior control for painting woven crevices. Or opt for a combination approach, using sprayer then smoothing with a brush.
Test spray a small section first to ensure you get satisfactory coverage. Adjust nozzle and paint consistency as needed. Take steps to control overspray.
How to Add Cushions Back Onto Painted Wicker
Once your wicker furniture is beautifully painted, you’ll need to reattach any cushions or cushions. Here are some tips:
- Allow paint to cure fully before placing cushions to prevent sticking or imprints.
- If cushions/fabric have connecting Velcro strips, cover the Velcro with painter’s tape during painting.
- For tie-on cushions, use new ties or ribbon if the old ones are also worn.
- Add a drop cloth over paint while reattaching cushions as a precaution.
- Insert plastic tablecloths between cushion and frame to prevent rubbing off paint.
- Consider spraying cushions with fabric protector to repel water and prevent stains.
- Fluff and straighten cushions after securing to ensure they look crisp.
Refreshing cushions or adding new ones provides the finishing touch on your painted wicker furniture revamp.
How to Maintain Painted Wicker Furniture
Now that your furniture looks like new, follow these maintenance tips to keep it looking its best:
- Allow paint to cure for 1-2 weeks before placing outside. Fully hardened paint resists damage.
- Check for any scratches/chips annually and touch up as needed to prevent rust or rot.
- Hose furniture down monthly to remove pollen, bird droppings, etc. before they stain.
- Wipe down with all-purpose cleaner diluted with water to clean dirt and grime.
- Apply new topcoat sealant every 2-3 years to protect from wear and water damage.
- Store furniture covered or bring indoors during winter months if possible.
- Keep fabric cushions in good shape by washing/replacing as needed. Use furniture covers.
- Avoid placing in direct sun or rain long-term which can break down paint over time.
With proper prep and maintenance, freshly painted wicker should look beautiful for many years before needing a touch up!
Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Wicker Furniture
What kind of paint should I use on wicker?
High quality 100% acrylic latex paint formulated for outdoor use works best. Look for exterior paint with some flexibility to prevent cracking or peeling as wicker flexes.
Is primer necessary?
Yes, quality primer helps paint better adhere to wicker for a long lasting finish. Primer also protects the wicker itself from damage.
How long does painted wicker furniture last?
With proper prep, application and maintenance, painted wicker can look great for 3-5 years or longer before needing a refresh. Use touch ups when needed.
Should I paint wicker crevices?
Yes, saturating crevices creates a uniform finish. Use a stiff bristle brush and apply paint liberally to fully cover.
Can I paint previously stained wicker?
Yes, but stains should be fully removed with stripper before painting. Sand away gloss for paint adhesion.
What kind of brushes work best?
High quality nylon/polyester brushes with stiff angled bristles. Avoid foam brushes which don’t provide enough control.
Can I paint wicker different colors?
Absolutely! Paint sections like seats or tables contrasting colors for a fun pops of color.
How do I restore badly weathered wicker?
For wicker that’s very dried out, a marine epoxy resin can be brushed on first to seal and strengthen fibers before painting.
Painting tired wicker patio sets is an easy DIY project that makes furniture look brand new again at a fraction of the cost of replacement sets. Just be sure to properly prepare the surface so your fresh paint job lasts for seasons to come. With the right materials and these simple steps, you can stylishly refresh your outdoor space.
Conclusion
Reviving wicker furniture with a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and most cost effective ways to update the look of any patio or deck. With proper preparation and application, paint adheres well to wicker, restoring it to a like-new finish. This comprehensive guide outlines all the steps needed for success.
The key is taking time to thoroughly clean and lightly sand wicker first to ensure proper paint bonding. Quality primer and acrylic exterior paint suitable for wicker are must-have supplies. Using stiff bristle brushes to work paint into woven crevices results in smooth, complete coverage. Maintaining painted wicker with seasonal touch-ups keeps it looking beautiful for years.
With a small investment of time and materials, you can quickly transform faded, dated wicker into a stylish new showpiece. So don’t let worn furniture bum you out. Roll up your sleeves, break out the paintbrush, and revive your patio with this simple, budget friendly project. In no time, you’ll have a gorgeous new outdoor living space to enjoy all season long.