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How to Paint Over Already Painted Wicker Furniture

Holly Meehleis

Wicker chairs and tables make excellent patio accents. The material is ideal for outdoor applications but, over time, painted wicker furniture peels and chips. You can repaint wicker furniture to bring it back to life.

Repainting an old wicker chair can give it new life.

Tip

Oil-based primer and paint adhere well to wicker and resist flaking.

Warning

Always paint in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate safety gear. If painting outdoors with a compressor sprayer, apply the paint on a windless day.

  1. Scrape off as much flaking paint as possible with a soft wire or brass brush. If flaking is severe, carefully scrape off the cracking paint with a flat-head screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the wicker strands.

  2. Sand the rough edges lightly with 100-grit sandpaper fitted to a sander to rough up the surface before painting.

  3. Set down a drop cloth to protect the area. Place the wicker piece on top of the cloth. If painting outside, weigh down the cloth with a rock on each corner to keep it in place.

  4. Put on latex gloves, a respirator mask and safety goggles.

  5. Turn the piece upside down and apply an oil-based wood primer with a compressor sprayer or a natural bristle brush. Turn the piece right-side up and apply the primer. Allow the piece to dry completely. Add another coat of primer on both sides and let dry.

  6. Apply a light layer of oil-based semigloss house paint with a compressor sprayer or a natural bristle brush on the underside of the piece. Turn it right-side up and apply the paint. Allow the piece to dry thoroughly before adding another coat to both sides.

  7. Allow the wicker piece to cure for one week before using it.

The Drip Cap

  • Wicker chairs and tables make excellent patio accents.
  • Set down a drop cloth to protect the area.
  • Turn the piece upside down and apply an oil-based wood primer with a compressor sprayer or a natural bristle brush.