Bamboo, rattan and wicker furniture are all made from grass plants and, despite what many people think, they are not weather-resistant. Because these pieces are often less expensive than solid wood furniture, they are often mistreated and can soon become dull, warped and tattered. The techniques below will help to easily restore these pieces.
What is the difference between bamboo, rattan and wicker?
Actually, they are all in the wicker category. Wicker is not a material in itself --it refers to a variety of vines, grasses and plants that are woven into furniture . The more prominent materials include rattan, cane, bamboo, reed and willow. Often furniture pieces incorporate several of these materials.
Use:
- This type of furniture likes humidity but it is not for outdoor use. Rain, direct sunlight and dew are damaging. In addition, indoor heat dries it out quickly--causing it to crack under pressure.
- Wicker is most frequently used in enclosed outdoor rooms such as patios and sunrooms , and occasionally on open?sided but sheltered porches.
Care:
- Dust regularly with small brush or vacuum.
- Use a mild soap to create sudsy water and wipe using a damp sponge. Use a brush to get into crevices that have collected dirt and dust.
- If desired, hose it off in the backyard but do not let it sit wet or dry in the sun. Completely dry it with a soft cloth or use a hair dryer set on cold to speed up the process.
Rejuvenating the finish:
- If the finish is dull, try applying paste furniture wax to brighten it.
- A coating of clear varnish, shellac or lacquer can also be applied (use spray cans outside).
- Stain for a rich finish in wood tones or try a color. Be sure to remove any leftover varnish using a stripper or sandpaper so the stain adheres evenly.
- Try using wax stains or shoe polish to add some depth to the finish. Or add some stain to a paste wax to create a custom tint.
- Use enamel paint on the furniture. Allow it to dry for several days.
To repair broken bamboo furniture:
- If the item needs to be braced underneath, use wood dowel rods to do this.
- Paint or stain the rods to match the bamboo. Use a stain marker to create the faux rings of growth on the rods (draw wavy rings around it and then use stain to blend them in).
To repair the joints:
- First use wood glue to repair any splits in the joint, clamp and let dry.
- Then, buy flat reed or sweet grass at caning supply stores and rewrap the joints . It helps to soak the reed in water first so it is pliable.
- Glue or use small brads to hold in place.
Resources wicker and rattan catalog
South Sea Wicker and Rattan Furniture Co.
1708 Fairfax Road
Greensboro, NC 27407
Phone: 336-294-4100
Fax: 336-294-4125
Email:
jkuo@aol.com
URL:
www.southsearattanfurniture.com/
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