Rattan furniture is made out of rattan, a species of palm native to Asia, Africa, and Australia. Rattan is considered one of the strongest types of wood, but when exposed to sunlight, it can bleach. It can also develop cracks and dents when used for a long period of time. To ensure that every piece of rattan furniture remains useful even after years of use, here are some useful repair instructions.
Tools and Materials
- Glue
- Sand Paper
- Cloth
- Stain
- Spray Paint
- Spray Primer
- Knife
- Screws or Nails
- Hammer
- Paintbrush
- Boiled Linseed Oil
Step 1 – Glue Loose Joints
If there are any loose joints in the rattan furniture, glue them back together. If the joints are connected using screws, tighten these screws. If they are connected using nails, remove the nails first and hammer new ones in place. Even if the nails and screws hold the joints firmly, still apply a good amount of glue for added strength.
Step 2 – Scrape and Sand Rough Grains
Scrape off the rough patches or protruding grains on the furniture with a sharp knife. When the larger grains have been removed, use a sandpaper to smooth the surface. Make sure to wear a dust mask to protect the respiratory system. If there are still rough patches, continue sanding them until every surface is smooth. This will also help prepare the furniture for painting or staining.
Step 3 – Apply Stain
Wipe any dust off the rattan surfaces using a clean rag. Prepare stain or varnish on a container. Cut the stain evenly on the furniture until all surfaces are covered. Make sure not to apply the stain twice in one area as this may cause unevenness in shade. Wait for the first coat to dry completely before cutting another coat if necessary. Allow the stain to dry before using the furniture again. Using stain makes the rattan furniture look more natural. However, paint can also be used as an alternative.
Step 4 – Paint the Furniture
The best way to paint the furniture is to use spray paint. This is recommended because rattan does not create a flat surface. Spray paint seeps through small cracks and uneven areas. Prepare the rattan by spraying it with primer. Allow the primer to dry for a few minutes before spraying the paint. To ensure that the rattan furniture matches the interior decoration of the home, make sure to choose a paint color carefully. Allow the paint to dry.
Step 5 – Use Boiled Linseed Oil
If the rattan furniture has not been painted or stained, but does have small dents and cracks in it, there is one trick that can repair the damage. Apply the boiled linseed oil onto the rattan surfaces using a paintbrush. Allow the oil to soak for about 30 minutes. Rub the surfaces with a soft cloth. The linseed oil does not actually fill in the dents or cracks, but causes the rattan to expand, thus making these minor damages less noticeable. It also provides a shiny finish.
