Rattan furniture has been a popular choice for most homeowners who are looking for a natural and unique touch to their interior design. These chairs are stylish and durable and they make us comfortable while sitting and relaxing. However, rattan chairs can still get damaged over time for various reasons as we sit on the chair every day and more such as sunlight, humidity, and moisture can also cause damage to the chair.
In these, some of the most common damages are loose strands, broken or missing pieces, and dirt accumulation. You need to fix these issues as soon as possible to maintain its quality, But you don’t know how to do it properly. So in this guide, we will walk you through a step-by-step process offixing a rattan chair seat and also give you some tips on maintaining its quality.
Understanding Different Types of Rattan Chair
Before we start the process of repairing rattan chairs, it is important to understand that there are different types of chairs. And you have to determine what type of chair you have. The two main types are:
- Natural Rattan Chairs
These chairs are made entirely from natural rattan materials and have a more rustic and natural look.
- Synthetic Rattan Chairs
On the other hand, synthetic rattan chairs are made from artificial materials like resin, plastic, or PVC. They are usually more weather-resistant and you can use them both indoors and outdoors.
So inspect your chair fully or check online, also It will give you an idea of what you need and how you can fix it.
Difference Between Rattan and Wicker
One of the main questions that people ask is the difference between rattan and wicker chairs. There is no difference between rattan and wicker furniture. Rattan is a material used to make furniture, while wicker refers to the weaving technique used to create furniture from natural or synthetic materials.
Related: How to Repair Wicker Chair Seat?
How to Repair a Rattan Chair? Step-by-Step Process
It is a simple and easy task that you can complete with some necessary tools and materials. Here are the steps that will be followed to fix your rattan chair:
- Thoroughly Assess the Damages
- Prepare the Work Area
- Clean the Chair Thoroughly with a Clean Cloth
- Sand Down Rough Edges using Fine-Grit Sandpaper
- Remove Old or Damaged Strands
- Repair Loose Ends and Wrappings
- Cut and Prepare New Rattan Strands
- Weave New Strands into Place
- Glue the Loose Strands and Wrappings
- Apply Finish or Sealant
Once you have learned the ways to follow. Now we are going to explain these steps in detail, so gather your tools and materials to start the process.
What you will need?
- Rattan or cane for replacement strands
- Scissors or sharp knife
- Pliers
- Small hammer
- Fine-grit sandpaper
- Wood glue or adhesive
- Clamps (optional)
Step 1. Thoroughly Assess the Damages
Before you start repairing your rattan chair, it is important to take a good look at the damages and assess what needs to be done. First, start inspecting your chair for any broken or missing pieces, loose strands, and rough edges. And note all these in your mind to fix them properly.
Step 2. Prepare the Work Area
It is important to have a clean and organized workspace, for clean work. So place a cloth or newspaper on your work area to protect it from any glue or stains, and gather all the tools and materials near you.
Step 3. Clean the Chair Thoroughly with a Clean Cloth
Take a clean cloth and start wiping down your chair on each part. Make sure it is free from any dust, dirt, or debris. It will also help you to see the damages. If you see any stubborn stains, then you should clean it deeply. Make the cleaning solution like mild soap or detergent and water. Then gently scrub the area with a soft brush. Then leave it to dry for an hour or two.
Step 4. Sand Down Rough Edges using Fine-Grit Sandpaper
Once you have cleaned your chair and it is fully dried, the next step is to smooth out any rough spots on the rattan. You will need fine-grit sandpaper for this. Here is how you can do it:
- Take your fine-grit sandpaper and lightly rub it over the rough areas of your rattan chair. You don’t need to press too hard ( just a light touch is often enough ).
- Focus on areas where the rattan might have splintered or where loose strands have caused roughness. These are likely to be along the edges or at points where two strands cross.
- Move the sandpaper back and forth in a gentle motion. You just have to make the surface smooth without causing further damage.
- After sanding, wipe the chair down with a clean, dry cloth so the dust or debris created by sanding is properly removed, and ensure that the areas you sanded are smooth to the touch.
Step 5. Remove Old or Damaged Strands
Inspect your chair, If there are any old or damaged strands, you need to remove them to replace them with new ones. First, make sure the pieces and strands that need replacing and start by gently pulling out the old strands from the underside of the chair, by using pliers. Be careful not to damage any of the other strands.
Step 6. Repair Loose Ends and Wrappings
If your chair has any loose ends or wrappings, you need to secure them first before adding new strands. You can use a strong adhesive like wood glue or PVC cement and apply it directly on the loose ends or wrappings. Then press them down firmly and leave them to dry completely for at least an hour.
Step 7. Cut and Prepare New Rattan Strands
To replace the old or damaged strands, measure and cut new rattan or cane strands that can fix the damaged areas. So first measure the length by using a tape measure or ruler, and then cut the strands using scissors or a sharp knife. Make sure to cut extra length for the strands so they can woven into place properly.
Step 8. Weave New Strands into Place
After cutting the new strands, you can now start weaving them into place. It is important to follow the same weaving pattern as the original strands. It can be difficult, as you have to work with thin, flexible strands. You can use your fingers or a small hammer to gently push the new strands, making sure they are tightly woven. Another way is, you use clamps to keep the strands in place until they are properly secured.
Step 9. Glue the Loose Strands and Wrappings
Once you have placed all the new strands into place, and your chair looks almost like new, the next step is to glue down any loose strands or wrappings using a strong adhesive. Apply the adhesive on all sides where the strands are loose, then press them down firmly. And wait about 2 hours, until the glue dries and bonds properly.
Step 10. Apply Finish or Sealant
After you have completed each process, now you can add a finish or sealant to your chair. It will give your chair a shiny look, But before applying any type of finish, make sure that your chair is clean and completely dry. So you can use polyurethane, varnish, or clear lacquer to protect and preserve your chair. Apply the finish evenly using a brush or cloth, and then leave it to dry for about 3-4 hours.
Additional Cleaning and Painting your Chair – Finishing touches
After the repair work has been completed, and your chair looks good and clean, It is a plus point and optional, you can skip this, But if you want to make your chair look even better by painting the rattan or cane strands with a new color. Then we also explained this: what is the right paint color and where to use it?
Choosing the Right Paint for Rattan Chair
Open any online store or go to your nearest hardware shop, and you will find a wide range of paint products made especially for furniture. But when it comes to rattan, the best option is spray painting. Spray paints are easy to use, and they cover a large surface area quickly. You can choose your color as you want to match your décor.
How to Apply Paint on Your Chair?
- First, make sure that the chair is clean and completely dry.
- Shake the spray can well before using it and then start spraying on the chair’s surface from about 8-12 inches away.
- Make sure to move the can back and forth continuously, so the paint covers evenly.
- Allow the first coat of paint to dry a bit before applying another layer for better coverage.
- Once you have finished painting all sides of your chair, read the label of the paint and see how much you have to wait. However, 24 hours are recommended for drying completely.
And now your chair is fully repaired and ready to use after 1 day.
How to protect your newly repaired and painted chair?
Once you have repaired the chair and you can use it, you need to take care of it and use it in the right way. So here we have listed some tips to follow:
- Avoid placing the chair in direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Clean the chair regularly with a soft cloth or vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris.
- Avoid placing heavy objects on the chair to prevent any strain on the newly repaired strands.
- If you have pets, make sure they don’t scratch or chew on the repaired areas of the chair.
- In case of any loose strands or damage, fix it immediately by following the same repair process.
Also Read: How to Repair Wooden Chair Joints?
FAQs:
What is the Best Glue to Repair the Rattan Chair?
The best glue for repairing a rattan chair is wood glue or PVC cement. These adhesives have a strong bond and can easily secure loose strands and wrappings.
Can rattan chairs be repaired Without Disassembling It?
Yes, many repairs, such as fixing loose strands or replacing damaged sections, can done without fully disassembling the chair. However, If your chair has major damage or needs a complete overhaul, it is best to disassemble it for better access and repair.
Can I Paint My Rattan Chair Any Color?
Yes, you can paint your rattan chair any color you want. It all depends on your personal preference and the design where your chairs will be placed. Just make sure to use spray paint for better coverage and even application.
Conclusion
You have learned in this article, how to repair and restore your rattan chair in 10 easy steps. From cleaning to adding a finish, we have covered all the necessary details that you need to know. However, this is a simple and easy task but doing this in the right way is also important to follow. Also, apply all the care tips and routines, we have mentioned, to keep your chair in good condition for a longer time.