How to Spray Paint Wicker

If you’re wondering how to spray paint wicker, you’ve come to the right place!

I’ve had this wicker chair in the corner of my master bedroom for a long time, and it’s in major need of makeover… so let’s do it!

I loved it when I first bought it 10 years ago, but my taste changed and so did my wall colors.  I went from the warm reds and golds to cool grays. This chair just hung out in the dark corner until I had a brilliant idea.

But…the next question: How do I spray paint wicker?

My 6  dining chairs were so easy to spray paint (see them here) with the HomeRight Finish Max, but I had no idea what to do about this chair!

So I drug the brown beauty out to the back yard and got busy.

Why should you spray paint wicker?

Spray painting wicker can be a great way to revitalize old, faded, or worn-out furniture, giving it a fresh new look that complements your decor. Wicker furniture can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room, but over time, it can start to look dull and dingy, losing its charm and appeal.

Spray painting wicker is a cost-effective and straightforward way to breathe new life into your furniture without having to replace it entirely. By choosing the right color and finish, you can create a look that matches your personal style and complements your existing decor.

Spray painting wicker is also an eco-friendly option since it allows you to repurpose furniture that might otherwise end up in a landfill. Instead of buying new furniture, you can give your old wicker pieces a second chance, reducing waste and helping to protect the environment.

Furthermore, spray painting wicker is a quick and easy DIY project that doesn’t require any specialized skills or tools. With a little bit of effort and some basic materials, you can transform your wicker furniture into a beautiful and stylish statement piece that will be the envy of your guests.

Materials Needed to Spray Paint Wicker

1. Wicker furniture: The first thing you’ll need is the wicker furniture you want to paint.
2. Drop cloth or plastic sheeting: You’ll need to protect the surface you’ll be painting on from any overspray. A drop cloth or plastic sheeting can help to prevent paint from getting on the floor or other surfaces.
3. Cleaning supplies: Before painting, you’ll need to clean the wicker furniture to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. You can use a mild soap solution and a soft-bristled brush or sponge to clean the wicker. You’ll also need a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the furniture after cleaning.
4. Sandpaper: Sandpaper can be used to scuff up the surface of the wicker slightly, making it easier for the primer and paint to adhere. A fine-grit sandpaper (around 220 grit) should work well.
5. Primer: A primer is essential for helping the paint to adhere to the wicker and for providing a smooth surface. Look for a primer that is suitable for use on wicker and that is compatible with your chosen spray paint.
6. Spray paint: You’ll need to choose a spray paint that is suitable for use on wicker furniture. Look for a spray paint that is specifically designed for use on wicker and that is available in the color you want. You can also choose a gloss or matte finish, depending on your preferences.
7. Protective gear: Spray painting can be messy, so it’s essential to wear protective gear to avoid getting paint on your skin or in your eyes. Gloves, a mask, and safety glasses are recommended.
8. Spray paint handle: A spray paint handle can make it easier to apply the paint evenly and can reduce hand fatigue.
9. Clear coat (optional): A clear coat can be applied after the paint has dried to help protect the finish and increase its durability.

Here’s some of the “special tools” I recommend using:

Preparing to Spray Paint Wicker

Preparing the wicker is an important step in the spray painting process. It helps to ensure that the paint adheres properly and creates a smooth, even finish. Here’s a detailed explanation of how to prepare the wicker:

1. Clean the wicker. Start by cleaning the wicker furniture to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. You can use a mild soap solution and a soft-bristled brush or sponge to clean the wicker. Be sure to get into all the crevices and corners of the furniture.
2. Rinse the wicker. After cleaning, rinse the wicker thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the furniture and remove any excess water.
3. Allow the wicker to dry. Let the wicker furniture dry completely before proceeding. You can set it outside in the sun to air dry, or you can use a hair dryer or a fan to speed up the drying process.
4. Sand the wicker. Once the wicker is dry, use a fine-grit sandpaper (around 220 grit) to lightly sand the surface. This will help to scuff up the surface slightly, making it easier for the primer and paint to adhere. Be sure to sand gently, as wicker can be delicate and can easily be damaged.
5. Remove any dust. After sanding, use a clean, dry cloth to remove any dust or debris from the surface of the wicker. This will ensure that the primer and paint adhere properly.

Apply Primer Before Spray Painting Wicker

Applying primer to wicker is a crucial step in the spray painting process, as it helps the paint to adhere properly and creates a smooth, even finish. Here’s an explanation of how to apply primer to wicker, along with tips for achieving an even coat:

1. Choose the right primer. Make sure to choose a primer that is specifically designed for use on wicker and that is compatible with your chosen spray paint.
2. Shake the can. Before applying the primer, shake the can vigorously for at least one minute to ensure that the primer is well-mixed and the nozzle is clear.
3. Hold the can at the correct distance. Hold the can of primer about 8-10 inches away from the surface of the wicker. This distance will help to ensure that the primer is applied evenly and doesn’t create drips.
4. Apply a thin, even coat: Start by applying a thin, even coat of primer to the wicker. Move the can in a sweeping motion, making sure to cover all areas of the furniture. Avoid spraying too much primer in one spot, as this can create drips and an uneven finish.
5. Let the primer dry: Once you’ve applied the primer, let it dry completely before applying the spray paint. Follow the instructions on the primer can for drying times.

Tips for Achieving an Even Coat

• Hold the can at a consistent distance from the surface of the wicker throughout the application process.
• Move the can in a sweeping motion, making sure to cover all areas of the furniture.
• Apply the primer in thin, even coats to avoid drips and an uneven finish.
• Use a spray paint handle to make it easier to apply the primer evenly and reduce hand fatigue.
• Apply the primer in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes and to ensure that the primer dries properly.

Applying the Spray Paint

Applying spray paint to wicker is the final step in the process of revamping your wicker furniture. Here’s an explanation of how to apply spray paint to wicker, including tips for achieving an even coat and avoiding drips:

1. Choose the right spray paint. Choose a spray paint that is specifically designed for use on wicker furniture and that is compatible with the primer you used. Make sure to select a color and finish that suits your desired look.
2. Shake the can. Before applying the spray paint, shake the can vigorously for at least one minute to ensure that the paint is well-mixed and the nozzle is clear.
3. Hold the can at the correct distance. Hold the can of spray paint about 8-10 inches away from the surface of the wicker. This distance will help to ensure that the paint is applied evenly and doesn’t create drips.
4. Apply a thin, even coat: Start by applying a thin, even coat of spray paint to the wicker. Move the can in a sweeping motion, making sure to cover all areas of the furniture. Avoid spraying too much paint in one spot, as this can create drips and an uneven finish.
5. Let the paint dry: Once you’ve applied the first coat of paint, let it dry completely before applying additional coats. Follow the instructions on the spray paint can for drying times.
6. Apply additional coats: If necessary, apply additional coats of spray paint to achieve the desired look. Be sure to let each coat dry completely before applying the next one.

My Experience with the Paint

I used the same paint that I painted my dining chairs with.  It’s a chalk-based paint that needs very little prep.

I strained the paint, because it was dry around the top of the can and I didn’t want to clog up my sprayer.

Follow the directions with the sprayer for thinning, I live on the edge, I just eye balled mine.  After you use the sprayer a couple times, you can judge the consistency.

After I applied 2 coats of paint, I let it dry for 24 hours and used the HomeRight C800766 Finish Max Fine Finish Sprayer (affiliate link)
to apply a water-based top coat.

One think that I haven’t mentioned is, this awesome sprayer is so easy to clean! I’m lazy and I would not be using it if it took a long time to clean!

Just think about it, you can paint it any color you want!

Murphy is so impressed with my skills, she/we love the new look!

I definitely won’t be putting this baby in the corner of a dark bedroom again 😉

Tips for achieving an even coat and avoiding drips:

• Hold the can at a consistent distance from the surface of the wicker throughout the application process.
• Move the can in a sweeping motion, making sure to cover all areas of the furniture.
• Apply the spray paint in thin, even coats to avoid drips and an uneven finish.
• Use a spray paint handle to make it easier to apply the paint evenly and reduce hand fatigue.
• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes and to ensure that the paint dries properly.
• Avoid spraying too much paint in one spot, as this can create drips and an uneven finish.
• If drips do occur, use a cloth to wipe them away immediately.

Letting the Paint Dry

After you’ve applied the spray paint to your wicker furniture, it’s important to let it dry properly to ensure a long-lasting, beautiful finish. Here’s an explanation of how long to let the paint dry, along with tips for ensuring that it dries properly:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The manufacturer’s instructions on the spray paint can will give you an idea of how long the paint should take to dry. Typically, spray paint will dry to the touch within 15-30 minutes, but it can take up to 24 hours to fully dry.
• Allow adequate ventilation. Proper ventilation is important for ensuring that the paint dries properly. Choose a well-ventilated area for painting, and keep the room ventilated for several hours after painting to help the paint dry quickly and properly.
• Avoid touching the paint. Once you’ve applied the spray paint, avoid touching the surface of the wicker until the paint has fully dried. Touching the paint can cause fingerprints or smudging, which can ruin the finish.
• Avoid exposure to moisture. Moisture can interfere with the drying process and cause the paint to bubble or peel. Avoid exposing the painted wicker to moisture until it has fully dried.
• Let the paint cure. Once the paint has dried, allow it to cure fully before using or moving the furniture. Curing can take up to 7 days, depending on the type of spray paint you used and the conditions in your environment. During this time, avoid placing heavy objects on the furniture or using it excessively.

Repeating the Process

If you find that one coat of spray paint isn’t enough to achieve the desired finish on your wicker furniture, it’s possible to apply additional coats. Here’s a brief explanation of how to repeat the process if additional coats of paint are needed:

1. Let the previous coat dry. Before applying additional coats of spray paint, make sure that the previous coat is completely dry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the spray paint can for drying times.
2. Apply additional coats. If you need to apply additional coats of spray paint, repeat the process of shaking the can, holding it at the correct distance, and applying a thin, even coat to the wicker furniture. Be sure to let each coat dry completely before applying the next one.
3. Use a light touch. When applying additional coats of spray paint, use a light touch to avoid creating drips or an uneven finish. Aim for thin, even coats to achieve the best results.
4. Let the paint cure. Once you’ve applied all of the necessary coats of spray paint, allow the paint to cure fully before using or moving the furniture. Curing can take up to 7 days, depending on the type of spray paint you used and the conditions in your environment.

I walked in the kitchen door and looked at the bar, sitting right there might be my next project…4 brown wicker bar stools 😉

Final Touches

Once you’ve finished spray painting your wicker furniture, there are a few final touches you can make to ensure that the finish is long-lasting and beautiful. Here’s an explanation of some final touches that might be necessary:

1. Apply a clear coat: A clear coat can be applied after the spray paint has dried to help protect the finish and increase its durability. A clear coat will also give your wicker furniture a glossy, polished look. Look for a clear coat that is compatible with your spray paint, and follow the instructions on the can for application.
2. Finish with wax: If you prefer a more natural, matte finish, you can finish your spray-painted wicker furniture with wax. Waxes such as beeswax or furniture wax can help to protect the finish and give it a soft, subtle shine. Apply the wax with a clean, soft cloth, and buff it gently to achieve the desired shine.
3. Touch up any spots: After the clear coat or wax has dried, inspect the furniture for any spots that may need touching up. Use a small paintbrush to touch up any spots that may have been missed or that need a little extra coverage.
4. Add cushions or accessories: Finally, consider adding cushions or accessories to your newly spray-painted wicker furniture. Cushions can add a pop of color and comfort, while accessories such as throw pillows or a blanket can give the furniture a cozy, inviting look.

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