Asked on Apr 13, 2014

Wicker storage basket to ottoman- need advice!

Cate Murphy
by Cate Murphy
I bought these cute wicker storage baskets/cubes with the intention of turning them into storage ottomans by adding some cushion to the top. Then I realized I have no idea how to work with wicker and so now I'm not sure how to move forward. The tops feel pretty solid, but I'm afraid of puncturing a hole in them so I was thinking of attaching the cushion to a piece of plywood first then adding that to the cube. Does regular wood glue work on wicker? Also there are a couple spots where the wicker is broken, is this an easy fix? Can't decide if I should leave this color, maybe paint and the broken wicker would be like "distressing" them or what.
Now moving onto design...I need help picking fabric! I want to use something that is "neutral" enough that I won't need to change it but also want something that will pop because our living room is living room is very plain (white walls, white/tan tile floor, light tan couches). We'll be getting an area rug soon (possible blue/white geometric design) and I'm not very comfortable with mixing/matching patterns and colors.
Any suggestions are welcome and appreciated, thanks in advance!!
The wicker storage baskets/cubes; wicker is broken on some corners
Close to the look of my couches...everything is white or tan in my living room :(
  4 answers
  • You are definitely on the right track! They will need a solid piece on top since feet and butts will be on them. You can glue it down once you have padded and upholstered it. Secure wit a staple gun, maybe jute for trim to hide the application line and VIOLA! happy repurposing!
  • Also, if you paint them. ..be sure to use a spray paint. Much easier with wicket.
  • Diane Arnold Diane Arnold on Feb 23, 2015
    @Kate Murphy, you can use reg. wood glue. Touch up the color with brown water proof marker to cover scratches. A far as fabrics. Find something you can make throw pillows out of to match. I recommend something darker if feet are going on them. I love the paisley shown on the couch, but with a darker background. I really wouldn't paint them. Touch them up and seal them with a thinned glue brushed on like Mod Podge. It will keep the personality of the pieces, not just something painted and topped with a seat. Have fun and you will have some nice conversation pieces.
  • Lori Lori on Mar 14, 2015
    If the wicker were in perfect shape I wouldn't paint them but it looks like it is not in "perfect" condition so I would paint them BLACK. I truly believe every room needs a shot of black in it. Whatever you choose for the top, should have a bit of black in it just to connect the two pieces but your choices are endless. Another thought, for the top, is to cut the wood a couple of inches bigger all the way around and maybe just round the corners a bit if you want, it would make for a bit more "foot" room.