How to Reupholster a Wicker Rocking Chair

Wicker furniture such as a rocking chair is attractive, but due to its fragile nature, reed strands can easily crack or break. Adding a cushion to wicker can prolong its life as well as provide a comfortable spot to sit. Reupholster your wicker rocking chair as needed, whether it be to replace old cushions or to change your color scheme.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Soft cleaning cloths
• Measuring tape
• List of wicker retailers
• Muslin or another light fabric
• Large pieces of foam
• Material for cushion covers
• Sewing machine or needle and thread

Buy Cushions for a Wicker Rocking Chair

1. Clean your wicker rocking chair well before you reupholster. Use a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt. If you find mold or mildew on your rocking chair, clean it with a solution made from bleach and water.

2. Measure the seat and back of the rocking chair using a measuring tape. Write down the dimensions so you will know what size cushion to buy.

3. Browse catalogs or websites of retailers who sell wicker rocking chairs and accessories. If your chair is a standard size or shape, you may be able to order cushions very easily.

Make Your Own Wicker Rocking Chair Cushions

4. Buy two large pieces of muslin or another lightweight fabric you can use to create a cushion pattern.

5. Lay a double layer of muslin over the seat and back of the rocking chair and smooth it so you can write on it.

6. Mark the outline of the seat and back onto the muslin with a pencil.

7. Cut around the pencil markings, leaving a 1/2-inch allowance for the seams.

8. Put the muslin cushion pattern on top of a piece of foam. Using scissors, trim away the excess foam so that it matches the muslin shape.

9. Sew three of the sides of the muslin pattern together. Turn it inside out when you have one open side left.

10. Insert the foam into the muslin pocket. Sew up the open side.

11. Use the completed cushion as a pattern to make cushion covers out of the fabric of your choice. The process of cutting and sewing the cushion cover is the same as making the muslin pattern.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to bring your wicker rocking chair inside during wet weather or better yet, use it in an enclosed porch or other room inside your house. This will preserve the current upholstery so you can avoid having to reupholster your furniture often.