Fixing Frayed Wicker and Loose Weave in Wicker Chair repair

1. Fixing Frayed Wicker and Loose Weave in Wicker Chair repair When wicker furniture is used outdoors, it's especially vulnerable to the elements. Natural rattan and bamboo strands are often more susceptible to damage than man-made resins. But that doesn't mean that your wicker furniture has to look broken and worn. With a little time, patience, and the right tools, you can fix any wicker furniture. Check for Loose Wrappings Wicker furniture is a favorite choice among many homeowners because it is attractive, comfortable, and easy to maintain. However, it is also vulnerable to the elements, so it should be treated with care to keep it looking its best. A common problem with natural wicker is that it is susceptible to moisture, which can lead to mildew and eventually cause the weave to break down. Keeping your furniture in a dry place and cleaning it regularly can help prevent this from occurring.

2. Using a simple tool, such as needle nose pliers, you can check to see if the wrapped joints on your wicker chair repair are tightly wound. If they are loose, remove a few inches of wrapping to check for the condition of the wire. Replace Reeds One of the most common wicker chair repairs is replacing the damaged reeds. Replacing these pieces will restore your wicker chair repair to its original appearance and add a touch of whimsy to your outdoor area. Soak your replacement reeds in water for at least 30 minutes to make them supple and easier to work with. Then, insert them into the furniture and weave them in and out until they fill in the missing strands. Once your reeds are in place, use a small amount of wood glue to secure them. Once the glue is dry, tuck in the ends and snip the excess off. Most antique totally woven wicker furniture was manufactured using either rattan reed or paper fiber rush on hardwood steam-bent frames. The term “wicker” refers to a variety of plant materials, including rattan, bamboo, willow, burd from the back of palm leaves and cattails. Patch a Hole When a piece of wicker chair repair furniture's weave becomes loose, you can repair it with materials at your local craft store. You'll need a re-wickering kit or a replacement strand of wicker-weaving fibers, along with a few tools that are appropriate for the project at hand.

3. To patch a hole, first square off the hole and clear it of any chipped paint or debris. If necessary, brace the hole with a wood piece. Screw the wood to either side of the hole, about 1 inch above and below it. If the hole is larger than 6 inches, use a drywall patch to fix it. If the drywall is thicker than the wall, you'll need to create a support brace for the patch. To make the drywall patch, start with a piece of drywall that's twice the size of the hole. Line it up to the squared-off hole and trace along the back of the drywall with a sharp utility knife, but don't cut through the front paper. Clean the Furniture Whether your wicker furniture is made of natural materials or synthetic resin, it needs regular cleaning. This helps remove dirt and mildew from the wicker fibers. Using a soft cloth and a gentle detergent solution, gently wipe away dirt and stains. Avoid soaking the wood in water, which could damage it or mark it. Blot any future spills with a clean, dry cloth as soon as they occur. This will help to absorb any liquid before it sets in, which can be difficult to get out later. When it comes to repairing loose reeds or strips, Henry says, “I’ve repaired loose reeds in the past by cutting the end off the strand or strip and gluing it back into place. I like to use wood glue for this, but a strong adhesive will also work.”