Easy Steps for Painting Wicker

Wicker furniture and accessories are items that never seem to go out of style. Wicker instantly adds texture to a room and a natural quality that doesn't have to be reserved for sunrooms or porches. While wicker in a natural earthy color is always fashionable, the same holds true for painted wicker pieces. Whether the wicker is antique with peeling paint or new wicker that needs to be customized with color, painting wicker is a simple do-it-yourself project.

No matter what type of painting project, the rules are similar. Preparation is the key to success. It's usually the least fun part of the task, but a necessary one all the same. Starting with a clean surface will help the paint adhere to the wicker and last longer. Older wicker pieces will need a more detailed cleaning than new wicker. After the prep work is finished, then the rest is up to the imagination.

Wicker can be stenciled, stamped or painted free hand. Painting stripes, simplistic flowers, or polka-dots are simple ways to add a fun touch to wicker furniture that don't require artistic skills. Another way to get more than one color on a piece of wicker furniture is by painting the legs or obvious trim pieces a contrasting color.

Spray painting can be a messy job, so keep this in mind when choosing the place and time for this project. A warm, dry and windless day is the best time to spray paint. Laying down large drop clothes or plastic sheets on a flat lawn area with adequate space is preferable. Part of a large cardboard box can be used as a screen to help prevent spray paint from drifting onto grass, trees or plants.

Supplies:

Old toothbrush or scrub brush (and a vacuum cleaner)

Bleach

Clean damp cloth (painters' lint-free rags are good choices)

Fine-grit sandpaper

Tack cloth

White spray primer

Spray paints of choice

Drop clothes, etc.

Optional Supplies:

Acrylic craft paints

Stencils

Foam stamps

Flat and round artists' brushes

Masking tape (for stipes and/or holding stencils in place or for keeping paper and plastic in place)

Spray varnish