There’s something special about vintage wicker furniture. It brings warmth, charm, and personality to any space. Whether you’re decorating a cozy sunroom, a charming patio, or a stylish living room, vintage wicker adds a nostalgic touch that never goes out of style.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about vintage wicker—from identifying true vintage pieces to restoring and decorating with them. If you’re looking for comfort, character, and classic appeal, vintage wicker might be exactly what your home needs.
What Defines Vintage Wicker Furniture
Before you decorate with it, it’s important to know what actually counts as “vintage” when it comes to wicker furniture.
Aged But Not Antique
Vintage typically refers to furniture that’s between 20 to 100 years old. It’s not quite antique, but it’s still full of history and quality craftsmanship.
Handmade or Early Machine-Made
Many vintage pieces were handcrafted or made using early manufacturing methods. You can often spot this in the tight weaving and quality materials.
Materials Used
True vintage wicker furniture was often made from natural materials like rattan, reed, bamboo, or willow. These materials have stood the test of time.
Design Characteristics
Look for unique patterns, curvy arms, and details like rolled edges or shell motifs. Vintage wicker often reflects design trends from past decades like the 1950s to 1980s.
Popular Types of Vintage Wicker Pieces
There are many types of vintage wicker furniture that you can add to your home. Each one has its own use and decorative charm.
Wicker Rocking Chairs
These cozy chairs are often found in sunrooms and front porches. Their soft rocking motion and woven seat make them perfect for relaxation.
Wicker Loveseats and Sofas
Two-seaters or small sofas made from wicker add elegance and coziness to living rooms or covered outdoor areas.
Wicker Coffee and Side Tables
These pieces often include glass tops and shelf storage underneath. They’re great for both indoor and outdoor use.
Wicker Storage Pieces
Chests, trunks, dressers, and nightstands in wicker bring texture and storage to bedrooms and entryways.
Want to browse real examples? Check out WickerHead to see a range of curated wicker furniture options.
Table of Contents
Why Choose Vintage Wicker for Your Home
Modern furniture can be sleek, but it sometimes lacks warmth and personality. Vintage wicker brings something truly unique to the table.
Brings History Into Your Space
Each vintage piece has a story. You’re not just buying furniture—you’re bringing a piece of history into your home.
Lightweight Yet Durable
Vintage wicker is easy to move around and strong enough to use daily. Its light feel doesn’t make rooms look bulky.
Fits Any Style
Whether your home is farmhouse, coastal, boho, or traditional, vintage wicker blends in naturally.
Adds Texture and Warmth
The woven patterns of wicker break up flat surfaces and add a cozy, welcoming vibe to your room.
How to Identify Authentic Vintage Wicker Furniture
Not every old wicker chair you find at a garage sale is truly vintage. Here’s how to tell if a piece is the real deal.
Check the Craftsmanship
Vintage wicker is usually handwoven or made with early machines. Look for detailed weaves and tight patterns, not loose or uneven strands.
Look for Wear and Patina
Signs of aging like slight fading, worn corners, and patina add to its charm. Be cautious of furniture that looks too perfect—it might be a modern replica.
Search for Labels or Marks
Some pieces have labels or brand marks from well-known manufacturers like Heywood-Wakefield or Lloyd Loom.
Materials Used
Natural materials like rattan and reed are common in vintage wicker. Plastic or resin is more common in newer, modern versions.
Styling Ideas with Vintage Wicker Furniture
You don’t need to have a vintage-themed house to enjoy vintage wicker. It blends well with many modern design styles.
Create a Boho Nook
Pair a wicker chair with a macramé wall hanging, colorful pillow, and indoor plant. It makes a perfect reading corner or entryway feature.
Mix with Modern Decor
Place a vintage wicker bench in a minimalist room for contrast. It adds texture and makes the space more interesting.
Use Outdoors with Care
Add vintage wicker to your porch or sunroom. Just make sure it’s protected from rain and direct sunlight to prevent wear.
Complement with Soft Fabrics
Layer your wicker furniture with linen throws, cotton pillows, and wool rugs for a cozy, inviting setup.
Caring for Your Vintage Wicker Pieces
Vintage furniture deserves a little extra care. With proper maintenance, your wicker pieces can last for many more years.
Regular Dusting
Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust from the weave. This prevents buildup in small cracks.
Avoid Excess Moisture
Vintage wicker doesn’t handle moisture well. Keep it away from rain or damp areas, and wipe up any spills right away.
Protect from Sunlight
Too much sunlight can dry out wicker and cause fading. Use curtains or shades to filter strong sun in indoor areas.
Condition Occasionally
Apply a light coat of furniture oil every 6–12 months to maintain flexibility and prevent cracking.
Repair and Restoration Tips
Vintage wicker might need some repairs, especially if it’s been stored or used heavily. Luckily, many issues are fixable.
Tighten Loose Weaving
Use a pair of tweezers and glue to tuck and secure any loose strands. Make sure the area is clean and dry first.
Repaint or Refinish
If the finish looks faded or chipped, you can repaint with a brush or spray. Always use a primer and wicker-safe paint.
Replace Broken Sections
Professional furniture repair shops can reweave damaged arms or legs. It may cost a bit, but it’s worth saving the piece.
Add New Cushions
Fresh cushions instantly revive a vintage chair or loveseat. Choose soft, durable fabrics that match your home’s color scheme.
Where to Find Vintage Wicker Furniture
Finding authentic vintage pieces can be fun and rewarding. Here are some of the best places to look.
Estate Sales and Auctions
These often offer well-maintained pieces that have been in one family for years.
Antique Stores
Local antique shops usually have wicker items in their furniture section. You can often inspect them closely before buying.
Online Marketplaces
Try platforms like Etsy, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace. Be sure to check dimensions, photos, and seller reviews.
Explore WickerHead
Visit WickerHead for expert-curated pieces and inspiration for styling and restoring vintage wicker.
Vintage vs. Antique vs. Reproduction Wicker
Knowing the difference between these terms helps you make better buying decisions.
Vintage
Furniture that’s around 20–100 years old. Usually shows light wear, uses natural materials, and reflects past styles.
Antique
Wicker that’s more than 100 years old. Typically rare and valuable, with more delicate craftsmanship.
Reproduction
New furniture made in the style of vintage or antique pieces. These can still look great but usually lack the historical value.
How to Tell the Difference
Ask the seller about the piece’s age and origin. Look for signs of aging, craftsmanship quality, and material type.
Conclusion: Bring Back the Beauty of the Past
Vintage wicker furniture gives your home charm, texture, and a connection to the past. From beautiful chairs and loveseats to unique tables and dressers, these pieces tell stories while serving practical purposes.
With the right care and styling, vintage wicker can be a treasured part of your home for years to come. Whether you find it at a market or restore it yourself, it’s more than furniture—it’s a feeling.
Ready to start your vintage wicker journey? Visit WickerHead for timeless ideas, expert tips, and beautifully curated selections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What qualifies as vintage wicker furniture?
Vintage wicker usually refers to pieces made between 20 to 100 years ago. They’re often made with natural materials and show signs of age or craftsmanship.
2. How do I know if a wicker piece is truly vintage?
Check for handwoven details, aging signs like fading or patina, and materials like rattan or reed. Labels or stamps from old brands can also help.
3. Can vintage wicker furniture be used outdoors?
It can, but it’s best placed in covered outdoor areas. Too much moisture or sun can damage old wicker over time.
4. Is vintage wicker furniture comfortable?
Yes! Especially when paired with soft cushions. It’s lightweight, flexible, and surprisingly supportive.
5. How should I clean vintage wicker?
Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dust. Spot clean with a damp cloth and avoid soaking it in water.
6. Where can I buy vintage wicker furniture online?
You can check online marketplaces or visit WickerHead for curated selections and restoration tips.
7. Can vintage wicker be painted?
Yes, but use a light hand. Clean the surface first, use a primer, and apply wicker-safe paint with a brush or spray.
8. Is it expensive to restore vintage wicker?
Minor repairs are affordable, especially if done yourself. Major reweaving or structural repairs may need professional help.
9. What styles work well with vintage wicker furniture?
Boho, coastal, farmhouse, and even modern spaces benefit from the texture and charm of wicker pieces.
10. Does vintage wicker furniture hold value?
Yes. Well-maintained vintage wicker can hold or even increase in value over time—especially rare or branded pieces.