How to Repair Baskets
Wicker baskets can get repaired when damaged if they are handled with care and the original weave pattern is carefully observed. When trying a repair on your own, start by practicing on a basket that has little or no cash or antique value. Baskets which are monetarily valuable are better serviced by a basket restoration expert.
First: Carefully remove the broken sections.
Carefully removed the damaged sections of wicker. If only the horizontal strips are damaged, remove them, and leave the vertical structure in place. Pay careful attention as you remove sections of wicker to the weave design. The new sections of basket must get weaved the same way to maintain the pattern.
Second: Replace damaged sections
Use wicker work that is the same stain and size as the wicker strands that you removed. Work them back into the basket in the same pattern as the wicker you removed. Try to keep the weave running the in same direction as well. Your goal is to make it look as seamless as possible. Trim the ends so that they lay flush against the old sections of wicker that did not need removal. Remember that you want the union between old and new wicker to look as invisible as possible.
Third: Final touches
Reattach any details that were on the basket, like glued on decorations or ribbons. If the original basket was painted, repaint the whole basket the same color as the original basket for uniformity. Apply the paint in a thin coat so that it does not glob up between the wicker strands and camouflage the weaving detail that gives the basket its distinct appearance.