Restore Old Wicker Chairs: DIY Guide

• Informal
• Encouraging

Friendly, Encouraging

Dust off those forgotten treasures! The concept of upcycling is super trendy right now, and your old wicker chairs are the perfect project to jump on board. Wicker repair kits from your local hardware store, like Ace Hardware, are readily available and surprisingly easy to use. Many DIY enthusiasts, such as Bob Vila, have breathed new life into similar projects. With a little elbow grease, your old wicker chairs can go from drab to fab, adding charm to your porch or sunroom, promising comfort for years to come!

Let’s Breathe New Life into Those Old Wicker Chairs!

Hey there! So you’ve got some old wicker chairs, huh? Fantastic! They’ve got stories to tell, and with a little elbow grease and this guide, you can make them beautiful and functional again. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think! This guide is all about helping you restore those treasures to their former glory.

I. Getting Started: Assessment and Prep

Before you dive in, let’s take a good look at what we’re working with. This is where we figure out what needs fixing and what we can salvage. Think of it as a wicker chair check-up!

• The Inspection: Walk around each chair. Check for broken strands, loose joints, dirt, and mildew. Note everything down – being thorough now will save you time later.
• Cleaning is Key: Gently clean your old wicker chairs with a soft brush and a mild soap and water solution. Rinse well and let them dry completely – sunshine is your friend here, but avoid direct, harsh sunlight for prolonged periods. A good cleaning will reveal the true extent of any damage.
• Gather Your Supplies: It’s always better to be prepared. Here’s a basic list of what you might need:
  1. Soft brushes and cloths
  2. Mild soap
  3. Small bowls and buckets
  4. Wood glue (for loose joints)
  5. Wicker repair material (more on this later!)
  6. Sharp scissors or utility knife
  7. Sandpaper (various grits)
  8. Paint or stain (optional)
  9. Protective sealant (optional, but recommended)

II. Repairing the Wicker: Replacing Damaged Strands

This is where we get hands-on! Replacing damaged wicker can seem daunting, but trust me, with a little patience, you’ll be a pro in no time. We will primarily focus on repairing broken strands in this part of the article on old wicker chairs.

Choosing the Right Wicker

Finding the perfect match for your old wicker chairs is important. You’ll want to consider the following:

Factor	Description
Material	Natural wicker (rattan, reed) or synthetic. Try to match what’s already there.
Size/Diameter	Measure the existing strands to ensure a good fit. Too thick or thin, and it will look off.
Color	Wicker naturally darkens as it ages. You might need to stain or paint the new wicker to match.

Step-by-Step Repair

1. Prepare the Area: Carefully remove the damaged or broken wicker strands, being careful not to damage the surrounding areas.
2. Soak the New Wicker: Soaking it in warm water makes it more pliable and easier to work with. Usually about 30 minutes will do.
3. Weave it In: Following the original weaving pattern, carefully weave the new wicker strand into place. This might take some practice, but don’t give up!
4. Secure the Ends: Use a small amount of wood glue to secure the ends of the new wicker. You can also use small tacks or staples, depending on the chair’s construction.
5. Trim Excess: Once the glue is dry, trim any excess wicker with your scissors or utility knife.

III. Tightening Loose Joints: Strengthening the Foundation

Wobbly old wicker chairs? Loose joints are often the culprit. Here’s how to fix them and make your chairs sturdy again.

• Identify the Loose Joints: Wiggle the chair and pinpoint exactly where the movement is coming from.
• Apply Wood Glue: Carefully apply wood glue to the loose joint. Use a syringe or a small brush for precision.
• Clamp or Bind: Clamp the joint together or use rope or twine to bind it tightly. This ensures a strong bond as the glue dries.
• Allow to Dry Completely: Let the glue dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes at least 24 hours.

IV. Finishing Touches: Painting, Staining, and Sealing

Now for the fun part! This is where you can really customize your old wicker chairs and make them your own. Remember, this step is entirely optional. If you love the natural look, you can skip it altogether!

• Sanding (If Necessary): If you’re painting or staining, lightly sand the chair to create a smooth surface for the finish to adhere to.
• Priming (For Painting): Apply a primer before painting to ensure better adhesion and a more even finish.
• Painting or Staining: Choose a paint or stain that’s suitable for outdoor use if your chairs will be exposed to the elements. Apply thin, even coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
• Sealing: Apply a protective sealant to protect your old wicker chairs from the elements and prolong their lifespan. This is especially important if you’ve painted or stained them.

So, there you have it! Hopefully, you’re feeling ready to tackle those old wicker chairs and breathe new life into them. It might take a little elbow grease, but the satisfaction of relaxing in a beautifully restored piece of furniture is totally worth it. Happy restoring!