Does your beloved wicker furniture look faded or worn out? Maybe you dream of giving that old porch swing a fresh, vibrant new look. Wicker furniture adds charm to any space, inside or out. But choosing the right paint for this special material can feel like a puzzle. You worry about peeling, chipping, or finding a color that truly lasts against sun and rain.
The wrong paint can ruin the texture and beauty of your wicker quickly. Finding a product that sticks well and keeps its color is key. This guide cuts through the confusion. We explain exactly what kind of paint works best for wicker. You will learn the secrets to a smooth, professional-looking finish that stays beautiful for years.
Keep reading to discover the top paint types, essential prep steps, and easy application tips. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to stunning, renewed wicker furniture!
Top Paint For Wicker Furniture Recommendations
- Works on virtually any surface including wood, plastic, metal, fiberglass, concrete, wicker, vinyl and more
- Oil-based formula with excellent adhesion prevents rust, resists fading and chipping for a long lasting finish
- Fast drying formula dries to the touch in 30 minutes and covers up to 15 sq ft per can
- Prevents rust and corrosion for enhanced durability
- Satin finish provides a low-sheen look on surfaces
- Use for a variety of indoor and outdoor project surfaces including wood, metal, plaster, masonry or unglazed ceramic
- Water-based acrylic formula is low odor, resist chips and provides long-lasting protection
- Covers up to 30 sq ft and dries to touch in 30 minutes for quick project completion
- Gloss finish provides a fresh new look for surfaces, goes on smoothly and provides excellent hide
- Prior to application sand surfaces with 180/200 grit sandpaper, then wash with a degreaser, allow the surface to dry and apply paint
- Premium spray wood stain provides quick, even coverage on interior furniture, cabinets, doors and more
- Easy to use, oil-based spray stain is perfect for intricate projects and hard to reach areas
- Complete projects 3X faster than traditional Varathane brush wood stains with up to 40 sq. ft. coverage per can
- Any-angle spray with comfort tip offers easy application in any direction
- Fast dry wood stain spray reveals the true beauty of wood with premium color
- Use for a variety of indoor and outdoor project surfaces including wood, metal, plaster, masonry or unglazed ceramic
- Water-based acrylic formula is low odor, resist chips and provides long-lasting protection
- Covers up to 120 sq ft and dries to touch in 30 minutes for quick project completion
- Semi-gloss finish minimizes surface imperfections, goes on smoothly and provides excellent hide
- Prior to application sand surfaces with 180/200 grit sandpaper, then wash with a degreaser, allow the surface to dry and apply paint
- EASY TO USE, EVEN FOR BEGINNERS: Whether you’re new to DIY or a pro, Rust-Oleum Chalked makes painting easy and enjoyable. Minimal prep required means you can jump right into your project confidently and focus on creativity—not complicated steps
- IDEAL FOR FURNITURE REFRESHES: Chalked is perfect for updating nightstands, coffee tables, bookshelves, cabinets, and more. It adheres to wood, metal, ceramic, canvas, and more—turning everyday pieces into stylish, custom accents with ease
- QUICK CLEANUP, NO FUSS: When your project is done, cleanup is quick and easy with just soap and water. No special products or harsh chemicals needed—just a smooth finish and a clean workspace, ready for your next idea
- FAST-DRYING, ONE-COAT COVERAGE: Most surfaces need only one coat, and it dries to the touch in just 30 minutes. That means less waiting and more doing—perfect for weekend projects, last-minute updates, or spontaneous creative sessions
- SMOOTH-TO-TOUCH MATTE FINISH: Chalked delivers a soft, ultra-matte finish that feels as good as it looks. Whether your style is modern, minimalist, boho, or classic, this smooth, velvety texture adds a refined, trendy-yet-timeless touch to any project
- Weather and corrosion resistant coating protects exterior/interior surfaces like wood, metal, concrete, masonry and more
- Oil-based formula provides a durable protective coating with excellent rust prevention
- Dries to touch in 2-4 hours and covers up to 15 sq. ft.
- Excellent resistance to abrasion, fading and chipping
- Satin finish offers a low-sheen look
- Ideal for use on interior/exterior surfaces including wood, plastic, plaster, metal, masonry and unglazed ceramic
- Oil-based formula resists chips and provides long-lasting protection
- Dries to touch in 20 minutes and covers up to 12 sq. ft. per can
- Durable formula provides excellent hide and goes on smoothly
- Gloss finish provides a fresh, new look for surfaces
- SPRAY PAINT AND PRIMER – Krylon COLORmaxx Spray Paint and Primer delivers premium coverage and superior color with adhesion and durability. This primer and spray paint can be used on wood, metal, wicker, most plastics, glass, plaster/ceramic and more.
- INDOOR/OUTDOOR RUST PROTECTION – Whether your spray paint project is inside or outdoors, this gloss white spray paint offers rust protection for a variety of DIY and craft projects including craft foam, hard surfaces, paper mache, fabric and paper.
- GLOSS WHITE SPRAY PAINT – Color changes everything – from a furniture refresh to creative touch-up. White gloss spray paint has a modern, sleek finish. White color spray paint can be used for a variety of projects, and the gloss finish has a shiny sheen.
- EASY USE – The easy push big button spray tip on this all-purpose spray paint can helps you spray any way, even upside down. Dry to the touch in 20 minutes or less for fast coverage to get projects done. 12 oz. can spray paint covers up to 25 sq. feet.
- AMERICA’S FIRST SPRAY COATING – Krylon spray paint has been trusted by consumers since 1947. COLORmaxx features the widest color offering in the Krylon product family, to help restore, refresh and recolor any project. With Krylon, today we spray.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Painting Your Wicker Furniture for a Fresh Look
Wicker furniture looks great, but sometimes it needs a new coat of paint. Painting wicker gives old pieces new life. This guide helps you pick the best paint for your project.
Key Features to Look For in Wicker Paint
When you buy paint for wicker, you need specific features. These features help the paint stick well and last long.
- **Adhesion:** Good paint sticks firmly to the wicker. Wicker can be tricky, so strong sticking power is key.
- **Durability:** The paint must handle sunlight, rain, and daily use. Outdoor wicker needs extra tough paint.
- **Flexibility:** Wicker bends slightly. The paint should stretch a little, too. If it cracks easily, it won’t look good for long.
- **UV Resistance:** Sunlight fades paint fast. Look for labels that say “UV resistant” or “fade-resistant.”
- **Coverage:** Good paint covers the woven texture in fewer coats. This saves you time and paint.
Important Materials: Choosing the Right Paint Type
The type of paint you choose matters a lot. Wicker is usually made of natural materials (like rattan) or synthetic materials (plastic). The paint must work on both.
For most wicker furniture, especially outdoor pieces, **spray paint** is the easiest choice. Spray paint gets into all the little gaps and weaves much better than a brush.
- **Oil-Based Paints (Alkyd):** These paints dry very hard and are tough. They work well for indoor wicker. They often have strong fumes, so use them in a well-aired space.
- **Latex Paints (Water-Based Acrylic):** These are easier to clean up (just use soap and water). Acrylic paints are great for outdoor wicker because they stay flexible. Look for 100% acrylic formulas for the best results.
- **Specialty Spray Paints (Like Rust-Oleum or Krylon for Plastic/Outdoor):** These are often the best bet. They are designed to stick to tricky surfaces and handle weather changes.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good preparation makes the paint job look professional. Poor prep leads to peeling and a messy finish.
What Makes the Quality Better:
- **Cleaning First:** Always wash the wicker thoroughly. Dirt and old finishes stop new paint from sticking. Use a mild soap and water solution.
- **Sanding (Lightly):** If the old paint is peeling, lightly sand the surface. This roughs it up so the new paint grips better.
- **Using a Primer:** A good primer seals the wicker and helps the topcoat stick. This step greatly improves how long the paint lasts.
What Lowers the Quality:
- **Painting Damp Wicker:** Moisture trapped under the paint will cause it to bubble and peel quickly. Make sure the wicker is completely dry.
- **Applying Coats Too Thickly:** Thick coats take forever to dry. They often run or sag, making the texture look gloppy instead of fine.
- **Skipping Sealing (For Outdoor Use):** If you paint outdoor wicker but do not use a clear, UV-resistant topcoat sealer, the color will fade fast.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where your furniture lives. This decides how much protection your paint needs.
Indoor Wicker (Living Rooms, Sunrooms):
For indoor use, you focus more on color and finish (matte, satin, or gloss). Since it stays dry, you can use simpler latex paints. A brush might work for small touch-ups, but spray paint gives the smoothest look over the woven parts.
Outdoor Wicker (Patios, Decks):
Outdoor furniture faces harsh conditions. User experience here means the paint must withstand sun, temperature shifts, and maybe rain. Acrylic spray paints followed by a marine-grade clear coat offer the best protection. People often use bright colors for outdoor pieces to make patios pop.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Painting Wicker Furniture
Q: Do I have to sand wicker before I paint it?
A: You should lightly sand it if the old paint is glossy or peeling. If the wicker is new or just dirty, a good cleaning might be enough. Always sand if you want the best adhesion.
Q: What is the easiest way to apply paint to wicker?
A: Spray paint is the easiest method. It reaches all the tiny spaces in the weave evenly. Hold the can about 10-12 inches away and use sweeping motions.
Q: Can I use regular wall paint on my wicker chair?
A: It is not recommended. Wall paint does not have the flexibility or the strong adhesion needed for wicker surfaces. It will likely chip off quickly.
Q: How long does the paint need to cure before I can use the furniture?
A: Most spray paints are dry to the touch in an hour or two. However, the paint needs to fully cure, which means it reaches maximum hardness. Wait at least 48 to 72 hours before placing heavy items or using the furniture regularly.
Q: Should I use a primer on wicker?
A: Yes, using a primer is highly suggested, especially if you are changing the color drastically (like painting black wicker white) or if the wicker is old and porous.
Q: Which paint is best for synthetic (plastic) wicker?
A: Look for spray paints labeled specifically for plastic or outdoor use. Standard paints slide right off synthetic materials without a special bonding agent.
Q: Can I paint wicker that sits in direct sunlight all day?
A: Yes, but you must use paint with high UV resistance. Choose quality exterior acrylic paint and finish it with a clear UV-blocking sealant to prevent fading.
Q: How many coats of paint should I apply?
A: Most projects require two thin, even coats. Applying two thin coats is always better than one thick coat. Wait for the first coat to dry before applying the second.
Q: What should I do if the paint starts peeling after a few months?
A: Peeling usually means the surface was not clean or primed correctly before painting. You must scrape off the loose paint, clean the area, lightly sand it, prime it, and then repaint that section.
Q: Does painting wicker make it feel stiff?
A: If you use too much paint or apply it too thickly, yes, the wicker will lose some of its natural flexibility. Using light coats of quality paint keeps the texture feeling natural.