Wicker furniture is available in almost any color of the rainbow. Some people prefer the neutral hues of natural wicker while others like it painted to match their current décor. Learn more about the various colors of wicker and how they fit into your home.
Basics about Wicker
Contrary to popular belief, the term wicker is a general classification as opposed to a certain material. It is a broad term used to describe an array of natural and synthetic materials used to create beautiful furniture. Fibers classified as wicker furniture include bamboo, rattan, sea grass and cane as well as synthetic materials such as resin and vinyl. As a result, wicker comes in a many different colors. Natural fibers have their own unique tones while synthetic materials can be dyed or painted any color. Many natural forms of wicker can also be specially painted. Often natural wicker furnishings are painted white.
The Colors of Natural Wicker Furniture
Natural wicker materials have their own one-of-a-kind color. People may choose a certain type of wicker because they like the distinct neutral color associated with it. Natural wicker tones range from beige to yellow to brown. Consider these various types of wicker and the hues they tend to be naturally.
Reed – is found inside the center of rattan and is a flexible material often used for wicker furniture accessories. This particularly type of wicker has no specific natural finish or color so it is often painted or stained to suit the buyer’s preferences.
Bamboo – looks a lot like rattan but it has a hollow core while rattan is solid in the center. Bamboo has distinctive ridges where the leaves once were rather than being smooth. The natural color of bamboo is usually a blonde tone.
Cane – is the outer skin of rattan that is cut into strips and woven into furniture. Its natural state has a glossy beige or brown appearance. Most people prefer the look of natural cane rather than having it stained or painted.
Kubu – is a type of cane that is treated in wet clay to achieve a soft gray color. Often this is a top choice for wicker furniture buyers who like an ashen gray hue.
Sea grass – refers to various flowering plants that grow in coastal waters. The leaves are narrow and long with a grass-like hue. This can range from deep beige to greenish beige.
Willow – is made from certain types of twigs and branches that are soaked to be flexible enough to weave into wicker furniture pieces. Willow often has a brownish tone.
Banana leaf – is a type of fibrous leaf that is dried to make into a rope to weave over a frame to create unusual wicker furnishings. Often banana leaf has a yellowish hue and is known for its durability.
Basic Wicker Colors for Every Home
Beyond the natural hues of wicker, there are basic colors used to create the majority of pre-made wicker furniture. When you go shopping for wicker furniture, you often find colors such as white, black or reddish-brown. Consider how they fit into your indoor or outdoor decorating scheme.
White wicker – is painted in shades of bright white, antique white and ivory. Often white wicker is used near the poolside or on outdoor decks. White wicker chaise lounges are always a luxurious addition to any outdoor space. If people want to add an airy feeling to an indoor/outdoor room, they choose white wicker. White wicker frequently appears in a bedroom setting ranging from white wicker headboards to white wicker bassinets for babies. White wicker is typically a quaint look used in old-fashioned settings and rooms with shabby chic décor.
Black wicker – is often selected by people who prefer modern or contemporary décor. It also works well outdoors when you live in a rainy climate because it takes longer to show signs of wear. Black wicker can be used both indoors and outdoors. A black wicker sectional sofa is dramatic wherever you display it. Use plush cushions and pillows to add a dash of color.
Reddish-brown wicker – has a classic and almost colonial feel. Often reddish-brown wicker is used with other stately pieces for a timeless appeal. It gives your indoor and outdoor spaces an earthy feeling. Other popular choices with a neutral vibe include olive green and dark brown. Neutral tones look great with a splash of deep color such as burgundy cushions or gold throw pillows.
Wicker Furniture Painted to Perfection
While wicker furniture looks fabulous in natural and classic colors, it is also fantastic in bright or pastel hues. For example, light blue wicker furniture adds a nautical touch to your home. Add cushions in colors such as beige, yellow and navy blue. Pink wicker furniture is fun-loving and brings a tropical feel to your outdoor living spaces. Toss out a few cream-colored cushions and display some plastic flamingos in your garden. Bright green wicker furniture is eye-catching yet fits perfectly into a Zen garden with a fountain. Certain wicker furniture is available in bright or pastel colors without doing any additional work. Other people decide to paint their current wicker furniture to fit into their new decorating scheme.
Painting Wicker Furniture
One of the benefits of wicker furniture is the ability to paint it. Most types of wicker are easy to paint yourself. When you want to change the look of your furniture, you can simply paint it another color. This also helps to extend the life of your favorite wicker pieces. If they start to look worn, just paint them to make them look brand new. Lay down a drop cloth before you start to paint. Clean the wicker furniture with a cloth and soapy water then let it dry completely. Use spray paint with sweeping motions to paint the wicker furniture. Let it dry for a few hours before using it again. You can also stain wicker furniture for a whole new look. The versatility and beauty of wicker is one of the major reasons people decide to buy it.