Today, I’ll show you how to paint wicker furniture. You can easily update wicker, rattan or woven furniture with a fresh coat of paint so it looks new again.
Follow these same steps for painting outdoor woven furniture too! I’ll cover what paint to use on wicker furniture and how to get a perfect paint job on wicker and woven furniture and cover a few furniture painting tips too.
This post was sponsored by HomeRight. Those of you who follow my blog know how much I love HomeRight products and how often I use them. Click here to see more HomeRight paint projects I’ve done!
What is the best way to paint wicker furniture?
You can paint wood wicker and woven resin furniture one of three ways:
- Use a paintbrush – The least expensive method but not recommended! Getting paint into all the nooks and crannies of wicker furniture takes forever, it’s hard to get an even coat and almost impossible to get deep inside the wicker strands of wood. Plus, you’ll ruin your good paintbrush by pouncing it into the woven wicker while trying to work in the paint.
- Spray Paint – This will work on small projects. The downside is that a good quality spray paint is expensive. Spray paint is usually thin, can be hard to apply evenly, has limited colors, and well…looks like spray paint. All of those items affect the quality of how your painted furniture looks in the end.
- Paint Sprayer – By far the best choice for painting any kind of wood or resin woven, indoor or outdoor wicker furniture. A paint sprayer gives the most consistent smooth overall finish by far, can be used with a wide variety of paints, and is the fastest for large projects.
Bottom line is, why go to all of the trouble and expense of a DIY wicker furniture paint job if it won’t look amazing in the end?
I used about 3 cups of paint when I painted this wicker chair. Using the paint sprayer I was able to get a factory-quality finish with no dark wood showing through anywhere. Oh! It’s a smooth finish as well, there isn’t one drip or brush mark!
Update: Would I paint my wicker chair again? In a heartbeat! It’s been about 3-4 years since I finished this DIY project and it still looks as good as the day I painted it!
This post contains affiliate links, as an Amazon affiliate I earn a fee from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting H2OBungalow!
How To Paint Wicker Furniture
Supplies needed to paint wicker furniture, rattan or woven furniture:
- HomeRight Finish Max Extra Paint Sprayer
- HomeRight Large Paint Shelter– optional but protects furniture when painting outside
- Drop cloths
- Paint – this is what I used in Cartouche Green
- White paint
- Clean painters rags
- Add optional detail over paint – old paintbrush or chip brush – These are a great deal
- Painters tape
- Simple Green cleaner
- Safety goggles
- Respirator breathing mask
I made a quick 3 minute video that shows how to paint wicker furniture. I think seeing the steps shows how easy it was to use the Finish Max Extra paint sprayer. It was almost 95 degrees the day I did this so if look hot, I was! It’s the challenge of having due dates and being a DIY blogger.
Step 1. Repair and clean the wicker furniture before painting.
If you need to make any repairs to your woven or rattan furniture do it before moving on to the next step.
You can prepare your furniture for painting, clean and degloss it all at the same time. Remove loose dust and dirt by vacuuming if needed first. You may need to use a brush and a hose to rinse if there’s a lot of dust build-up inside of the woven wood.
Next, wipe your chair or item well with Simple Green and a clean cloth. Simple Green will clean and degloss your surface at the same time. Deglossing is a must when painting and gives the new paint a better surface to adhere to and prevent flaking.
Allow your furniture to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
Step 2. Tape-off areas that you don’t want to be painted.
Use painter’s tape and plastic drop cloths to protect any areas that you don’t want to be painted. Garbage bags cut down to size work great for chairs and small furniture pieces!
Tape Tip: To get precise taped areas, tape the edges of your furniture item first, pressing down on the outside edge of the tape. Next, tape the plastic drop cloth to the first layer of tape with another layer of tape. The first layer gives precise edges and the second layer attaches the drop cloth. Works like a charm!
Step 3. Mix paint and prepare the paint sprayer
Now you’re ready to paint.
Which paints are best for painting wicker furniture?
You can use chalk paint, mineral paint, milk paint, urethane, or even oil-based paint on wicker, rattan and woven furniture.
If you’re using chalk, mineral, or milk paint, it needs to be self-sealing! Self-sealing paint means it does not need a wax or another type of clear top coat to seal it to your furniture item. It should list that it is self-sealing on the label. If you’re not sure ask before investing in your paint.
I promise you…you don’t want to try to wax wicker furniture by hand!
You can use a urethane which is a newer paint to the market. Sherwin Williams has an excellent one. It’s pricey but worth it and it dries very hard and is durable. I used it on my Kitchen Island makeover.
The one paint I would not recommend is latex. The latex base does not dry as hard as other paints so it’s not as long lasting.
If you are painting outdoor woven furniture use high-quality outdoor paint. It will last longer, has UV blocking built-in, and be fade resistant.
How to prepare the paint for the paint sprayer.
First, you’ll need to mix the paint to the proper consistency. I slowly added water until my paint was the consistency of thin pancake batter. I used about three cups of paint to paint my wicker armchair.
Tip: Add some water to the bottom of the paint container first before adding paint and the paint will mix better and quicker.
My HomerRight Super Finish Max comes with four tips for spraying different types of paint. I used the green tip for this project. Use a piece of cardboard to test the paint flow and spray pattern. It’s easy to adjust the spray flow on the Finish Max Extra with the little dial that’s located on the handle.
Step 4. Begin Painting from the underside or back.
I like to start at the bottom/underside of my furniture when painting so I can see how the paint sprayer is coating my piece before moving on to the more visible areas. Paint with a slow and even back and forth motion. Apply paint from different angles to get an even coat of paint into the nooks and crannies on your woven furniture.
You’ll need to apply at least two coats of paint. Wait for the first coat of paint to dry before applying another layer of paint. Flush your paint sprayer with clear water in between coats so the paint doesn’t dry in the sprayer while you wait.
Step 5. Allow it to completely dry.
Allow the paint to dry to the touch before taking off painter’s tape and protective plastic. Then as hard as it may be, wait and let the paint cure before using your freshly painted wicker furniture!
I usually wait for about 2 weeks to allow the paint to harden and cure. Waiting makes a huge difference when it comes to how well the paint holds up.
Add optional finishing detail.
This step is optional. Dry brushing paint in a contrasting color on the wicker chair adds dimension.
I share a good example of a dry brushing technique in my Bakers Rack makeover tutorial. Use a clean painter’s rag to wipe off excess paint. Dry-brushing paint on wicker furniture looks best when the layer of paint you’re adding is not perfectly even.
This step always adds a nice depth to a paint project.
What I love about using the Finish Max Extra was that it comes with different spray tips for different types of paint.In other words, it’s versatile for many types of projects. I’ve used them for years and they last a long time when you take care of them.
Clean-up is easy with water based paint like I used. I just ran water through the sprayer and rinsed the individual sprayer pieces. I would have spent the same amount of time washing out a paintbrush.
My painted wicker looks great next to my wall-mounted TV cabinet. I changed out the orange cushion for the neutral off-white and like it much better.
All in all, I think it’s a big improvement. I’m loving this color so much better than the original dark wood!
Pin this project for later and share with your friends on Facebook!
Do you have a piece of furniture that really needs a makeover? Learn How To Prepare Furniture For Painting and how to Paint Over Dark Colors.
Pin
Share
Tweet
FAQs
What is the best thing to paint wicker with? ›
Chalk paint is one of the best paints for wicker furniture, and you can't beat the Jolie Matte Finish.
What kind of paint do you use on wicker furniture? ›You can use chalk paint, mineral paint, milk paint, urethane, or even oil-based paint on wicker, rattan and woven furniture. If you're using chalk, mineral, or milk paint, it needs to be self-sealing! Self-sealing paint means it does not need a wax or another type of clear top coat to seal it to your furniture item.
Do you need to prime wicker furniture before painting? ›Question: Do I have to use a paint primer before painting wicker furniture? Answer: Yes, you really should use a primer first! Be sure to apply at least two coats of oil-base wood primer to the bare spots, or the final paint coat will absorb like crazy, adding to your costs.
Is it better to spray paint or brush paint wicker furniture? ›Let's just begin with my biggest tip ever and that is to Always, Always, Always use spray paint when painting wicker. Spray paint allows you to really get into all of the weaves of wicker better than any other paint that I've ever tried.
Should I spray paint or brush paint wicker? ›If you want to paint wicker, use spray paint
Spray paint has several advantages over brushing on paint for this type of project. It's incredibly quick to apply. Each coat will probably take you less than a minute to apply, then we advise you to leave it about half an hour between coats before applying the next one.
Spray painting wicker furniture is the best way to get a consistent finish, but this project can get messy, so do it outdoors when the weather forecast calls for a day or two of warm temperatures, calm winds, and no rain.
Does Rustoleum work on wicker? ›Give a plain wicker headboard an updated look with Rust-Oleum spray paint. Find a well-ventilated space to work in. Before you begin spray painting, sand the wicker headboard using a fine-grit sandpaper. Once you've sanded, use a clean cloth to wipe away the dust.
Is it hard to paint wicker? ›It's also easy to maintain and durable enough to last for many years. The best part of all is that it's easy to paint or stain, allowing you to refresh the look of wicker furniture time and time again.
What are the best colors to paint wicker furniture? ›Wicker Furniture Painted to Perfection
While wicker furniture looks fabulous in natural and classic colors, it is also fantastic in bright or pastel hues. For example, light blue wicker furniture adds a nautical touch to your home. Add cushions in colors such as beige, yellow and navy blue.
Use an oil-base spray primer formulated for use on wood, such as Zinsser Cover Stain (view on Amazon). Plan to put on a couple of coats to ensure the best-possible result. Wearing a dust mask, apply the primer to the wicker by holding the spray can about a foot away from the material.
Is wicker easy to spray paint? ›
Painting a wicker basket is child's play with spray paint. It covers quickly and gets into all of the hard to reach places a brush would struggle with. Wicker baskets add texture to your home and are great for storing logs, newspapers, magazines – not forgetting clean (and not-so-clean) washing.
What is the best finish for wicker furniture? ›Protecting wicker from the elements...
A coating of clear varnish, shellac or lacquer can be applied. If a spray can is used, spray furniture outside. Painted wicker can be freshened with a new coat of paint. Allow several days for drying before using.
Unless you're using a paint-and-primer combo product, use a primer before applying the first coat of paint. A layer of primer will not only act as a base coat, but it will seal the surface and improve both the paint's durability and adhesion to the furniture.
How do you make old wicker furniture look new? ›To restore unpainted or natural wicker to its warm glow, rub it with linseed oil (available at art supply stores), then gently wipe off the excess. Let freshly-oiled chairs dry for several days before sitting on them or add cushions to keep the oil off your clothing.
How do you waterproof painted wicker furniture? ›Weatherproofing Furniture: Wicker
Give your piece two coats of the paint of your choice, then top it with a layer of spray marine varnish, such as Minwax Helmsman Indoor/Outdoor Spar Urethane (from $10; Amazon). Wicker traps moisture easily; if it gets under the finish, it will damage the fibers from the inside out.
What kind of paint do you use on wicker furniture? There is a range of paint finishes you can use on wicker furniture, including chalk paint, milk paint and oil-based satin paint and gloss paint.
Is spray painting easier than painting? ›Generally, rolling paint is the most beginner-friendly. Spraying paint takes a lot of prep but the time to paint is faster. A lot of heavy taping and masking is required to prevent overspray.
How many cans of spray paint do I need? ›The area of a rectangle is length by width, so if measuring in feet, then multiple the length by the width and that is your square feet. Add up all the rectangles and you have your overall square feet. Divide that by 20 SqFt (or whatever the coverage of your spray paint is) and that gives you the number of spray cans.
Can you spray wicker furniture with water? ›Doing so could severely damage unfinished, natural wicker and could remove the protective finish from a lacquered piece. Never saturate or let water pool on wicker, as moisture can result in either spotting or deformity, or both.
Can wicker furniture be left outside? ›Natural wicker is not intended to be used outdoors and no amount of “water-proofing” spray-on's will protect natural wicker from the sun, moisture, mold, and mildew. If you want to use wicker furniture outside, it has to be resin wicker.
Will acrylic paint stick to wicker? ›
If your thinking about painting natural wicker furniture to make it look new again, you don't need to think much longer. Painting wicker furniture is an easy chore that usually results in great results. Natural wicker accepts acrylic paint quite well, and it helps protect the natural wicker longer than other paints.
What is the best paint for rattan furniture? ›Chalk paint is considered one of the best options when painting rattan projects. Oil-based paint is another popular pick as it works for both indoor and outdoor pieces. A paint sprayer or spray paint cans are also usually included for the sake of convenience.
How do you paint wicker or rattan? ›- Repair The Furniture If Need Be. ...
- Wipe, Clean and Dry Your Furniture Thoroughly. ...
- Apply Primer. ...
- Apply Paint. ...
- Let The Furniture Dry And Finish With Touch Ups.
Natural Wicker is a light, gray, cosmetic beige with a sandy undertone. It is a perfect paint color for a traditional style in any space. Pair it with black, charcoals and whites.
Can painted wicker be outside? ›This is the age-old question about wicker patio furniture: Can it really stand up to porch or patio use? Lindroth says yes, providing you are willing to lower your standards and wield a can of spray paint.
How many cans of spray paint does it take to paint a wicker chair? ›Spray wicker at all different angles to achieve the best coverage. Spray painting wicker patio furniture (Before and after picture) -4 cans of rustoleum spray paint per chair. - 7 to 8 cans for a bench. Make sure your wicker is clean of dust and dirt.
What is chalk paint best for? ›Chalk paint is most often used to give pieces of furniture a matte look, but it can also be used to paint an entire wall if you really love the effect. It has the power to turn a bedroom dresser into a standout piece or give a dining room table an old-school charm.
Can you use Thompson's water Seal on wicker furniture? ›If damp conditions prevail, it is better to seal wicker completely by applying penetrating waterproofing sealer like Thompson's Water Seal instead of oil products. To apply, wipe or spray on, following the manufacturer's instructions, then wipe away any excess. Sealer will also darken wicker.
How do you paint wicker to look natural? ›Give the furniture a natural look by using two different-colored paints with the same method used to antique furniture, applying a base coat and then a second that you wipe off almost immediately. The darker color adheres to the cracks and crevices in the rattan to give it a natural appearance.
How do you keep wicker from cracking? ›Apply a safe, non-toxic sealer to protect against cracks, chalkiness or fading. Cover or store in a dry place when not in use for extended periods of time.
How long to wait between primer and paint furniture? ›
Primer should dry for about one hour before applying paint. Primer may dry to the touch in about 30 minutes. But let another half-hour elapse before applying paint or another coat of primer.
Do you seal furniture after painting? ›Why Do You Need To Seal Painted Furniture? Paint sealers are needed as a top coat to protect the paint. A sealer dries to a harder, more durable finish than paint does. A coat or two when dry will protect the paint to withstand daily use.
Should you prime every time you paint? ›In a typical wall application, priming before painting is unnecessary. However, if the surface is porous (like wood or fresh drywall,) a drastic color change is occurring, stains need to be covered, or the surface is glossy, priming before painting is necessary.
What is the best way to paint outdoor wicker furniture? ›Apply a spray primer and let it dry before painting, or use an all-in-one outdoor spray paint that doesn't require priming. Holding the can about 8 to 10 inches away from the surface of your furniture, use gentle sweeping motions to get good coverage without causing drips.
How many cans of spray paint do I need for a wicker chair? ›Spray painting wicker patio furniture (Before and after picture) -4 cans of rustoleum spray paint per chair. - 7 to 8 cans for a bench. Make sure your wicker is clean of dust and dirt. Spray wicker at all different angles to achieve the best coverage.
How long does it take spray paint to dry on wicker? ›Always follow the instructions on the back of the can and allow to dry completely for 24 hours.
How many chairs can I paint with one can of spray paint? ›How Many Cans of Spray Paint are Needed to Paint One Wood Chair? To get complete coverage on a wood dining chair, one can of spray paint is needed. If using lighter colors like yellow, you may need to have a second can to fill in any areas. Don't forget when spraying the chairs – spray using light coats only.
Do you have to sand chairs before spray painting? ›DO sand furniture before applying paint. Furniture can be made of metal, wood, plastic, and a variety of other materials, and most will require some level of sanding to make sure paint adheres to the surface.
Is it easy to paint wicker? ›It's also easy to maintain and durable enough to last for many years. The best part of all is that it's easy to paint or stain, allowing you to refresh the look of wicker furniture time and time again.
Is chalk paint good for wicker furniture? ›Painting wicker furniture is super easy to do with chalk paint. You don't have to strip, sand or prime and still get a beautiful finished product!
What grit sandpaper for wicker? ›
Inspect the wicker and very lightly sand any sharp or rough areas with 80-grit sandpaper. Wipe the area with a damp rag to remove dust.