How to Make Miniature Wicker Furniture

Miniature wicker furniture can make for a great collector's item. It is also a fun hobby to pursue, if you have the time. Many arts and crafts stores carry all of the materials that you need to make your own wicker furniture. You could also get inspiration from visiting an actual furniture store to see what you would like to make.

1. Decide what you want to make. Wicker furniture comes in many models, so your first step is to select that pieces that you want to craft. If you are at a loss for what to design, try looking through some art magazines for ideas. Pick a piece that you will be comfortable putting together, and scale it down to the appropriate size.

2. Purchase the necessary materials. Wicker is a hard fiber and most of its materials come from plants. Willow switches, rattan stalks, reed and bamboo will be the primary materials that you will use. You can purchase most of these materials at online retailers that specialize in basket weaving. North Carolina Basket Works and MacPherson Arts & Crafts are two popular retailers that you can buy from.

3. Prepare the wicker pieces. After you select the design pattern, submerge the wicker in warm water. Because it is a tough fiber, it will have to soak until it is in bendable form. When you are able to angle the pieces the way that you want, you can begin the weaving process.

4. Allow the wicker to dry and begin weaving it around your furniture frame. Most people prefer a crisscross pattern, because it is easier. Before you finish the job, wrap the last piece of wicker into the other piece, to prevent unraveling. Apply a coat of wax to bond the materials together.