How to Fix the Wicker Backing Off a Rocking Chair

Wicker is a durable and attractive material, and for that reason it is often used to make furniture such as rocking chairs and patio pieces. But over time wicker can begin to weaken, and if these problems are not addressed quickly the reeds can become brittle and even break. If you have an old wicker rocking chair that has seen better days, you could throw it out and buy a new one. But repairing the damage can save the chair and save you a lot of money, as well.

Paintbrush
Linseed oil
Cloths
Reed

Instructions

- 1
  Fill a pot with linseed oil and heat it until it boils. Allow the linseed oil to cool to room temperature and apply it to the damaged wicker with a paintbrush. The boiled linseed oil helps strengthen and hydrate the wicker. Pay particular attention to any cracks or visible damage and give them extra linseed oil. Allow the oil to soak into the surface completely for at least 15 to 30 minutes.
- 2
  Wipe away any remaining oil that is just sitting on the wicker, using a soft cloth.
- 3
  Find any areas of the wicker rocking chair where the reeds are no longer in their proper place. Cover those areas with damp cloths to make the wicker pliable and easier to work with.
- 4
  Bend the reeds back into their proper positions to restore the original pattern of the rocking chair. Keep damp cloths on the wicker as you work to keep the reeds soft and pliable.
- 5
  Repair any holes in the wicker backing by purchasing a replacement reed in the same color as the original and soaking it in water until it is easily bendable. Apply damp cloths to the broken reeds and carefully remove them from the backing. Cut the replacement reeds 2 to 3 inches longer than the length you are replacing. Carefully weave them into place to retain the original pattern.

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