Wicker Headboards

From LoveToKnow Interior Design

Wicker headboards can give your bedroom a feeling of nostalgia.

History of Wicker

The popularity of wicker furniture during the Victorian era enjoyed a strong revival in the 1970s. You may be surprised to learn that wicker has been found in ancient Egypt and dates back to 3,000 years. Pieces discovered in long-forgotten tombs included chairs and chests. Even a wig box was discovered in one tomb. Egyptian wicker was constructed from reeds. This isn't the only wicker historically documented. Roman artifacts such as stone reliefs reveal wicker in the shape of tubs. Wicker was a common choice for baskets and furniture in the 16th and 17th centuries before modern technology allowed it to be mass produced for homes in the late 1800s. Wicker was commonly considered to be casual furniture for the porch or lawn.

In 1917, Marshal Lloyd designed a wicker weaving loom that revolutionized the production of wicker. A loom wicker is spun in tight strands to give it a more refined appearance. The strands are reinforced with stainless steel or sometimes aluminum cores to give it durability and strength.

Wicker's Popularity

There were several reasons why wicker headboards and other furniture became so popular. Cost was one factor. The sources were renewable and the furniture could be made cheaper than harvested hardwoods. Another reason why wicker was a good choice was because it was flexible which made it very comfortable.

As a natural fiber, wicker was perceived as being a clean material that later became synonymous with healthy outdoor living. Country retreats were the ideal setting for wicker porch and lawn furniture.

How Wicker Is Made

There are several ways to make wicker headboards. Sometimes even twigs have been used to create wicker headboards. The most common choices are rattan, reed, willow, and cane. Woven together, in various combinations, these products can become baskets, chairs, baby carriages, wheelchairs, rockers, tables, footstools, nightstands, dressers, and headboards.

Processing Wicker

The curing process of wicker is completed in three steps. After the wicker headboard is woven onto the furniture frame, the piece is dipped into a finish bath. This first coating makes the wicker pliable so the fibers are flexible. The coating makes the wicker headboard resistant to moisture. The wicker headboards are allowed to dry and dipped a second and third time.

Kinds of Wicker for Headboards

You can choose a traditional wicker weave or a loom weave for wicker headboards. There are many different styles of wicker headboards. You can select either a natural finish, various stains or paints.

Island style with various motifs carved into wood panels inserted between the wicker panels
- Palm tree, sunray, sailboat, and other motifs
Panel headboard with wicker inserts
Intricate woven patterns of traditional classic wicker designs
Mixture of wicker, rattan and wood
Combination of wrought iron and wicker designs

Room Design with Wicker

You can use you new headboard as the centerpiece of your bedroom design. You may want to add other pieces of wicker to your bedroom to repeat the wicker design of your headboard. Wicker furniture creates a romantic nostalgic feel to a décor that is inviting. With the right kind of comforter and pillows you can create either a whimsical or dreamy ambiance for your new bedroom. Explore the use of various textures and colors for a unique blending of styles.

Shop for Wicker Headboards

You may want a headboard that is composed of only wicker. This style is reminiscent of Victorian furniture. You can buy an arched, curved and ornate one. There are also other choices available that incorporate other elements and designs.

How to Clean Your Headboard

You'll find many recommendations for cleaning wicker headboard from using a toothbrush to dusting with a paintbrush with the bristle length cut in half. One of the best ways is to use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery brush attachment. Keeping your headboard clean will ensure you can enjoy it for many years.