Rattan furniture is durable and stylish, but over time it can crack, unravel, or weaken. The good news is that most damage is straightforward to repair at home with a few simple tools and materials.
Rehydrating Dry or Cracked Rattan Rattan dries out and becomes brittle with age or sun exposure. To fix this, wipe the furniture down with a damp cloth and apply linseed oil or a specialist rattan conditioner. Leave it to soak in, then buff gently. This restores flexibility and prevents further cracking.
Fixing Loose or Broken Strands If individual strands have snapped or come loose, soak replacement rattan cane in warm water for 30 minutes to make it pliable. Weave it back through the existing pattern, securing the ends with wood glue or a small staple hidden from view. Trim any excess cleanly.
Repairing a Wobbly Frame A loose frame is usually caused by weakened joints. Apply wood glue into the joint, clamp it firmly, and leave it to cure for 24 hours before using the piece again.
Finishing Up Once repairs are complete, apply a coat of clear lacquer or rattan varnish to protect the surface and extend the life of your furniture significantly.
