Are you looking for a way to make your furnishings stand out? Rattan is the perfect material to add a unique style and texture to your home décor. Not only is it incredibly durable and aesthetically pleasing, but it’s also versatile enough to match any existing furniture. Whether you’re hoping for an exotic twist on modern decor or want to spruce up vintage pieces, adding rattan can breathe new life into a room in no time at all!
In this blog post, we’ll give you everything you need to know about how to add rattan to furniture. From shopping tips and installation instructions—plus how-tos on customizing rattan using paint and more—by the time you’re done reading this post, adding stylish rattan accents will be second nature!
Why May You Want to Add Rattan to Furniture?
1 . To Add a Natural and Unique Look to Your Furniture
If you’re looking to add an earthy and unique touch to your furniture, adding rattan is the way to go. Rattan is a natural material that comes from palm plants, making it an environmentally friendly option for furniture. The texture and color of rattan give off a relaxed and natural vibe, perfect for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home.
2. To Increase Durability
Rattan is known for its durability, making it a great addition to furniture. It can withstand daily wear and tear, making it an ideal material for chairs, tables, and other pieces of furniture that are frequently used. Plus, rattan is resistant to moisture and heat, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
3. To Bring in a Tropical Feel
If you’re dreaming of a tropical paradise, adding rattan to your furniture can help bring that feel into your home. Rattan is commonly used in tropical regions, making it the perfect material to create a beachy or island-inspired look in your living space.
How to Add Rattan to Furniture in 6 Easy Steps
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you begin adding rattan to your furniture, make sure you have all the necessary materials. These include:
- Furniture piece you want to add rattan to
- Rattan strips or cane webbing (depending on your preferred method)
- Scissors
- Spray adhesive or wood glue
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Pencil
- Clamps or heavy objects (for drying)
Step 2: Prepare the Furniture Surface
If your furniture piece has any existing finish, use sandpaper to lightly sand it down. This will help the rattan adhere better. Then, wipe away any dust or debris with a clean cloth. Also, make sure the surface is dry before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Measure and Cut Rattan Strips
Measure the area on your furniture piece where you want to add rattan. Use a measuring tape or ruler to get accurate measurements. Then, using scissors, cut the rattan strips to fit the measured area. It’s always better to cut the strips a little longer than needed, as you can always trim them later.
Step 4: Apply Adhesive
Using spray adhesive or wood glue, apply a thin layer on both the furniture surface and one side of the rattan strip. Make sure to evenly spread the adhesive and avoid using too much. Also, if you’re using cane webbing, soak it in warm water for a few minutes before applying the adhesive. This will make it easier to work with.
Step 5: Place Rattan on Furniture
Carefully place the rattan strip onto the furniture surface and press down firmly. If needed, use a ruler or other flat object to smooth out any air bubbles. Use clamps or heavy objects to keep the rattan in place while it dries. Allow the adhesive to set for at least 24 hours before removing the clamps.
Step 6: Trim and Finish
Once the adhesive has dried, trim any excess rattan using scissors. Then, if desired, you can apply a layer of clear polyurethane to protect the rattan and give it a glossy finish. Allow the polyurethane to dry completely before using the furniture piece again.
Some Extra Tips to Add Rattan to Furniture
1 . Measure the Area
Before you begin adding rattan to your furniture, it is important to measure the area that you want to cover. This will help you determine how much rattan material you need and ensure that you buy enough to complete the project. It is also important to measure the space in between any existing rattan pieces to ensure that your new addition will fit seamlessly.
2 . Prepare the Rattan Material
Once you have measured the area, it’s time to prepare the rattan material. If you are using natural rattan, make sure to soak it in water for about 30 minutes before starting the project. This will make it more pliable and easier to work with. If you are using synthetic rattan, this step can be skipped.
3 . Attach the Rattan
Now comes the fun part – attaching the rattan to your furniture! Use a strong adhesive or wood glue to secure the rattan in place. It is important to apply even pressure and hold the rattan in place until the glue dries. You can also use small nails or screws to secure the rattan for added support.
4 . Trim any Excess Rattan
After you have attached all of the rattan, trim any excess material using a sharp pair of scissors or a razor blade. This will give your furniture a clean and polished look. Make sure to be careful when trimming, as you don’t want to accidentally cut through any of the attached rattan.
5 . Let it Dry
After all of the hard work, it’s important to let your newly added rattan dry completely before using the furniture. This will ensure that the adhesive has fully set and the rattan is secure. You can speed up the drying process by placing a fan near the furniture or using a hair dryer on a low setting.
6 . Maintenance
To keep your newly added rattan looking its best, it’s important to regularly clean and maintain it. Use a soft cloth or brush to remove any dust or debris from the material. You can also apply a coat of varnish or sealant to protect the rattan from wear and tear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take When Adding Rattan To Furniture?
When adding rattan to your furniture, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure the best results. Here are some things you should keep in mind:
- Always make sure to properly clean and sand the surface of your furniture before adding rattan. This will help the rattan adhere better and prevent any peeling or flaking.
- Use a high-quality adhesive specifically designed for rattan and furniture repair. This will ensure a strong bond and prevent any loosening or breakage in the future.
- Be sure to let the adhesive fully cure before using the furniture. Typically, this can take anywhere from 24-48 hours depending on the type of adhesive used.
- If possible, add a layer of protective sealant or varnish over the rattan once it has been added to the furniture. This will help protect the rattan from wear and tear and extend its lifespan.
- Finally, be mindful of where you place your rattan furniture in terms of exposure to direct sunlight, moisture, and temperature changes. These factors can affect the durability and longevity of the rattan.
Can I Add Rattan To Any Type Of Furniture?
While rattan can be added to a variety of furniture pieces, there are some factors to consider before proceeding. First, make sure the surface of the furniture is suitable for adhesion – smooth and free from dirt, grime, or old paint/varnish. Additionally, keep in mind that rattan is a flexible material and may not adhere well to hard or curved surfaces. It’s best to stick to flat, sturdy pieces for the most secure bond.
What Are The Benefits Of Adding Rattan To Furniture?
Besides adding a unique and natural aesthetic to your furniture, there are several benefits to incorporating rattan into your decor:
- Rattan is a lightweight material, making furniture easier to move and rearrange.
- It is also known for its durability, making it a long-lasting addition to your furniture.
- Rattan is flexible and can add a comfortable and ergonomic element to furniture designs.
- It is a sustainable and eco-friendly material, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
Conclusion
In summary, adding rattan to your furniture is a great way to add visual appeal and texture to any space. Whether you prefer a bohemian style or something more rustic and industrial, it has the potential to bring an interesting look into any home.
Not only that, but rattan storage pieces are also versatile and can work their way into many different room designs and décor styles. Since it’s a natural material, it offers durability and breathability compared to other materials. You can easily incorporate rattan items into your current space without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality.
Now that you know how to add rattan to furniture in your home interior, go ahead and take the plunge! Give yourself some creative license and see if you’re ready to try something new. With a few simple steps, your once-bland furniture will be totally transformed with a splash of chicness!
