How To Repair Rattan Furniture

Rattan furniture evokes a feeling of tropical, laid-back elegance. Unfortunately, due to its organic nature rattan furniture is also prone to wear and tear. The good news is that many rattan repairs are quite simple and can be accomplished with a few household items.

Before beginning any rattan repair, it is important to clean the furniture thoroughly. This will remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the repair.

Minor Repairs

Loose Glue Joints:

If a glue joint has come loose, it can be repaired with wood glue. Apply a thin layer of glue to the joint and clamp it together. Wipe away any excess glue with a damp cloth. Allow the glue to dry completely before using the furniture.

Broken Cane:

If a rattan cane has broken, it can be repaired with cyanoacrylate glue. Apply a small amount of glue to the break and press the pieces together. Hold the joint together for a few minutes until the glue has set.

Loose Weaves:

Loose weaves can be tightened by using a needle and thread. Thread a needle with a strong thread and sew the loose rattan pieces back into place. Be sure to use a knot to secure the thread.

Major Repairs

Broken Rattan:

If a rattan piece has broken, it can be repaired with a rattan repair kit. These kits typically include a piece of rattan, glue, and instructions. To repair a broken rattan piece, simply apply glue to the break and wrap the rattan piece around the break. Hold the joint together for a few minutes until the glue has set.

Reweaving Rattan:

If a large section of rattan has been damaged, it may be necessary to reweave the rattan. This is a more involved repair, but it can be accomplished with a little patience. To reweave rattan, you will need to remove the damaged rattan and replace it with new rattan. The new rattan can be woven into the existing rattan using a needle and thread.

Maintaining Rattan Furniture:

To keep rattan furniture looking its best, it is important to maintain it properly. Rattan furniture should be cleaned regularly with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents, as these can damage the rattan. Rattan furniture should also be protected from the elements. If possible, place rattan furniture in a covered area. If rattan furniture must be exposed to the elements, cover it with a tarp or other protective cover.