Rattan, albeit rarely, can fall victim to a little breakage now and then. So, if this happens to your household storage items - how do you go about repairing them?
We’re here to help. Read on to find out how to easily repair rattan…
Photo credit - @Angels_Home_ - Kubu Oval Log Basket - shop now.
How often are repairs needed with rattan products?
The answer to this question is not very often - but it also isn’t impossible.
The natural properties of rattan make this material highly durable and naturally resistant to harmful factors (e.g UV rays); however, the odd crack or splinter here or there can appear if it is not cared for properly.
Photo credit - @kelly.scott.at.home - Kubu Rattan Storage Trunk - shop now.
Rattan is a material known for being able to hold its shape very well, however, the overall durability will be partly down to the manufacturing process.
When a product is woven with careful care and precision, it’ll play a tremendous part in the overall integrity and durability. So, with that being said, well-made rattan products (such as our storage baskets) should easily stand the test of time with rigorous use, lasting for decades to come.
Photo credit - @mrs_macs_home - Square Kubu Rattan Shelf Baskets - shop now.
At Wovenhill, we have a selection of storage baskets that are carefully woven by experienced craftsmen, so that we can ensure that we deliver superior quality with every purchase.
Additionally, we only use ethically sourced and renewable materials that deliver premium quality, which include Seagrass, Water Hyacinth, and Kubu Rattan.
Common causes that cause rattan to break
Rattan is known for being highly durable and sturdy, and it can take plenty of rough handling in its stride, which is why it makes for the perfect material for storage products.
However, if you are experiencing some cracks or splinters and you’re unsure on why this is happening, here are some common causes of rattan breakage:
- The rattan product has been repeatedly exposed to damp conditions.
- The rattan product has been mishandled or scuffed against a rough surface.
- The storage product has been kept in a badly ventilated area for an extended time.
- The items within the storage basket are too heavy for the specific model.
- Continual exposure to dry heat.
- Repeat exposure to significant fluctuations in temperature.
- Rough manoeuvering and/or frequent overfilling of the storage basket.
Milton Set of 3 Natural Rattan Storage Baskets - shop now.
How to repair rattan
There are a variety of different methods you can use to repair rattan-based products easily and in a timely manner. See below for the four most common ways people choose to repair their rattan storage products.
Photo credit - @Angels_home_ - Kubu Rattan Oblong Log Basket - shop now.
Repair rattan using linseed oil
For any cracked or splintered rattan pieces, the first option for a quick repair would be to use a splash of linseed oil.
Linseed oil, also known as flaxseed oil, is an oil-based substance that is made from the ripened seeds of Linum Usitatissimum.
So, in other words, it’s a completely natural drying oil, and it’s commonly also used as a varnish and/or as a wood finishing, as well as a reliable adhesive.
Here’s how to use it:
- Ensure that the linseed formula you have is a boiled version.
- Start by cleaning the area you would like to fix with soapy water and leave it to dry.
- Next, using a paintbrush (the size will depend on the area you would like to fix), dab the formula around the cracked or split rattan area. Leave the oil to dry completely.
- After the first layer is dry, repeat the process one more time. Leave the oil to dry once again until it hardens, and the broken area should be restored.
Kubu Rattan Storage Baskets - shop now.
Repair rattan using epoxy resin
If you don’t have any linseed oil to hand, epoxy resin will do a great job of repairing any broken strands found on your rattan products. This is because it’s known for its strong adhesive properties, which is why it’s commonly trusted and used to repair other household items that are arguably more fragile than rattan, such as those made from glass or ceramic.
To use epoxy resin for repair purposes, follow these simple steps:
- Start by cleaning the area that is in need of repair with soapy water. Leave this to completely dry before you begin.
- Next, using a small amount of epoxy resin, cover the area where the rattan strand is broken.
- Using a small paintbrush, sculpt the adhesive around the area in question, so that it is completely submerged in the solution.
- Lastly, you’ll need to leave this to fully harden over the broken rattan strands. This will take at least 48 hours, however, you’ll be left with a perfect fix.
Kubu Rattan Rectangular Pet Bed - shop now.
Repair rattan using wood glue and a small paintbrush
If you don’t happen to have any linseed oil or epoxy resin in your household, virtually any type of good-quality wood glue, using the method mentioned above, should be more than enough to repair any visible cracks, stray strands or splinters found in your rattan products.
All you need to do is ensure that it’s a clear substance (so that the glue isn’t visible once fully dry), and once you’re finished repairing your rattan product - no one will be any the wiser that it’s undergone a slight tweak or repair!
Trim the rattan with scissors
Lastly, if you have spotted minor damage on your basket (such as a couple of stray strands), trimming it with scissors should do the trick! Simply trim the area in which the rattan has become loose or scuffed, and it’ll be back to pristine condition in no time.
Oval Bronze Log Basket - shop now.
We hope you’ve found our guide on how to repair rattan useful.
Explore the rest of our site to see our complete selection of baskets.
And Remember, all of our storage items are made exclusively for Wovenhill. We control stock, quality, and design, so if you’re after the best wicker storage products, choose Wovenhill!
