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How to Stain Wicker or Rattan Furniture

Wicker and rattan furniture can complement almost any style. It's a favorite choice for both classic and contemporary tastes, but the color choices for woven furniture are often limited. Staining unfinished wicker or rattan is a good idea if you plan to match your other furniture in the house or if you want to update your interior design. You can even strip and stain antique wicker to breathe new life into tired furniture. If the staining is done properly, you can enjoy the results for many years.

Things You'll Need

  • Towel or dust cloth
  • Mild cleaning solution
  • Disposable gloves
  • Bucket
  • Stain
  • Paint brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the furniture to be stained upright in a well-ventilated area. If you can't stain the piece outdoors or in an open garage, open the windows to allow for adequate ventilation. For easier cleanup, lay down a canvas tarp or old bed sheet you're no longer using before you start the staining process.

    • 2

      Wipe down the entire surface of the furniture with one of the towels or dust cloths to remove any dust particles. Dust is a major obstacle to achieving a rich, even tone in your stain, so make sure you go over each piece thoroughly. Antique wicker or rattan furniture will need special attention in this area as there may be several layers of dust on them.

    • 3

      Stain your furniture with your chosen method. If using an aerosol can, sweep the can back and forth in even strokes, keeping the can at least six inches from its target. To prevent uneven lines or splotches, try not to overlap the strokes. If using a regular paint can, stir the stain with a clean paint stirrer until it's a single color; then follow the same pattern as you used with the aerosol can. Use even strokes with the paint brush, avoiding any overlap.

    • 4

      Dry for 2-3 hours.