Coloring Reed Baskets

• Drop Cloth
• Foam Brush, Bristle Brush or Paint Sprayer with Air Compressor
• Little extra Reed
• Mineral Spirits
• Oil-based Wood Stain
• Painter's Mask, Gloves and Eye Protection
• Reed baskets

• It is easier to stain woven baskets rather than unwoven materials for better finishing.
• Choose a premium quality oil-based wood stain color of your choice.
• Cover the working surface with a drop cloth.
• Paint can be toxic and should strictly be kept out of children. It is advisable to paint wither outdoors or inside the room that has adequate ventilation.
• Wear proper protection before you start coloring reed baskets.
• Wood stain can be combustible and should never be placed near heat or flames or electricity wiring.
• Stir the stain well to dissolve all the solids.
• Mix mineral spirits with the stain in the ration of 2:1 to dilute it. Two parts should be mineral spirits and 1 part should be stain.
• Check the color on the extra piece of reed before applying it on the basket to check the effect.
• Cover the basket with the stain to cover all the surfaces using the brush.
• Wipe off any drips off the basket.
• You may apply another coat of stain for a darker shade.
• Foam brushes are disposable while bristle brushes last longer. Use paint sprayer attached to an air compressor, only if you have to stain several baskets at once.