How To Paint A Wicker Couch Pick up a second hand wicker couch or chair for a steal of deal! Prep! Clean couch with liquid TSP and water mixture and rinse well. Prime the couch with desired primer. This project used Kilz 2. Paint piece of furniture with at least two coats of exterior paint with paint brush. Clean cushions with soap and water and allow to dry. Add a few pillows and enjoy your newly painted wicker furniture!