Best Paint for Wicker? Secret to Lasting Outdoor Furniture

Wicker furniture, a hallmark of outdoor living, often faces the elements. To ensure its longevity, selecting the best paint for outdoor wicker furniture is paramount. This decision significantly impacts the aesthetic appeal and protective capabilities of your pieces. Krylon, a leading brand in spray paints, offers specialized formulas ideal for wicker. Before application, remember to adequately prepare the surface, often involving cleaning with TSP (Trisodium Phosphate) to remove grime. Understanding the impact of UV rays on paint, which can cause fading, helps in the selection process. The right paint, combined with these preparation methods, will help you find the best paint for outdoor wicker furniture.

Image taken from the YouTube channel Jolene The Tool Woman Taylor , from the video titled Using a paint sprayer to paint outdoor wicker furniture. General Finishes Milk paint. .

Finding the Best Paint for Outdoor Wicker Furniture: A Guide to Longevity

Maintaining outdoor wicker furniture can be tricky, especially when it comes to protecting it from the elements. The right paint is key to ensuring your furniture lasts for years to come. This guide will break down the factors to consider when choosing the best paint for outdoor wicker furniture and walk you through the painting process.

Understanding Wicker & Its Needs

Before diving into paint types, it’s important to understand what makes wicker unique. Wicker refers to the weaving process, not the material itself. Outdoor wicker can be made from natural materials like rattan, willow, or reed, or from synthetic materials like resin or plastic. The material composition directly impacts how the paint will adhere and perform.

Natural Wicker vs. Synthetic Wicker

• Natural Wicker: Porous and absorbs moisture, making it susceptible to mold, mildew, and cracking if not properly sealed and protected. Requires a paint that allows for breathability.
• Synthetic Wicker: Less porous and more resistant to moisture. Requires a paint that adheres well to plastic and provides UV protection.

Choosing the Right Paint Type: Factors to Consider

The “best” paint isn’t universal; it depends on several factors. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations:

1. Durability: Opt for paints specifically formulated for outdoor use. These are designed to withstand weather changes, UV exposure, and general wear and tear.
2. Adhesion: The paint needs to bond effectively with the wicker material. Priming is often crucial (more on that later!).
3. Flexibility: Wicker, especially natural wicker, can expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes. A flexible paint will move with the wicker, preventing cracking and peeling.
4. Moisture Resistance: Crucial for preventing mold and mildew growth, particularly on natural wicker.
5. UV Protection: Prevents fading and discoloration caused by sunlight.

Top Paint Options for Outdoor Wicker Furniture

Several paint types excel when used on outdoor wicker.

Acrylic Latex Paint

• Pros: Durable, flexible, water-based (easy cleanup), low VOCs, good color retention, readily available. A great all-around choice for both natural and synthetic wicker when properly primed.
• Cons: May require multiple coats. Prone to mildew growth on natural wicker if a sealant is not used first.
• Recommendation: Look for acrylic latex paints specifically formulated for exterior use and with added mildew resistance.

Oil-Based Paint

• Pros: Excellent durability, creates a hard, protective finish, resists mildew well.
• Cons: Strong odor, requires mineral spirits for cleanup, longer drying time, can become brittle and crack over time (less flexible than acrylic latex). Not ideal for synthetic wicker due to potential adhesion issues.
• Recommendation: Use with caution, primarily on natural wicker. Consider the environmental impact of oil-based paints.

Spray Paint (Specifically for Outdoor Use)

• Pros: Easy application, even coating, fast drying, available in a variety of colors and finishes. Great for intricate wicker designs.
• Cons: Can be less durable than brushed-on paint, may require multiple coats, overspray can be messy.
• Recommendation: Ideal for touch-ups, smaller projects, or intricate detailing. Ensure it’s designed for outdoor use and suitable for the wicker material.

Chalk Paint

• Pros: Provides a matte, vintage look, excellent adhesion (often requires minimal prep), easy to distress.
• Cons: Requires a sealant (wax or varnish) for outdoor use to protect it from moisture and wear, may not be as durable as other options.
• Recommendation: Primarily for decorative purposes and requires significant sealing. Best suited for covered outdoor areas.

Preparing Your Wicker Furniture for Painting

Proper preparation is just as important as choosing the right paint.

1. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the wicker with soap and water to remove dirt, dust, mildew, and any loose paint. Use a scrub brush to get into the crevices. Rinse well and allow to dry completely.
2. Repairing: Repair any broken or damaged wicker strands.
3. Sanding (If Necessary): Lightly sand any rough spots or existing paint. This helps create a smooth surface for better paint adhesion.
4. Taping: Use painter’s tape to protect any areas you don’t want to paint, such as metal frames or cushions.

5. Priming: Applying a primer is essential, especially for natural wicker and when using acrylic latex paint.

   • Purpose of Primer: Provides a uniform surface for the paint to adhere to, seals the wicker to prevent moisture absorption, blocks stains, and improves paint durability.
   • Choosing the Right Primer: Select an exterior-grade primer that is compatible with your chosen paint type. A stain-blocking primer is recommended for natural wicker.

Painting Techniques

• Brushing: Use a high-quality brush with synthetic bristles for acrylic latex paint and natural bristles for oil-based paint. Apply thin, even coats, working the paint into the crevices of the wicker.
• Spraying: Hold the spray can or sprayer 6-8 inches from the surface and apply thin, even coats, overlapping each pass slightly. Use a back-and-forth motion.
• Number of Coats: Apply at least two coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Sealing (For Added Protection)

Consider applying a clear exterior sealant, especially if you used chalk paint or a paint without built-in UV protection. This will provide an extra layer of protection against moisture, UV rays, and wear and tear.

Maintenance

Regularly clean your painted wicker furniture with soap and water. Touch up any chips or scratches as soon as you notice them to prevent further damage.

And that’s the lowdown on finding the best paint for outdoor wicker furniture! Go give your favorite pieces a refresh – they deserve it. Happy painting!