https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/summer-parasol • Posted by Only Frills and Horses
Finally, the snow has let up and it's getting sunny for a change. But this means you're constantly squinting. Here's a solution for those of a Victorian-esque persuasion- a simple cotton parasol.
Finally, the snow has let up and it's getting sunny for a change. But this means you're constantly squinting. Here's a solution for those of a Victorian-esque persuasion- a simple cotton parasol.
Find yourself an umbrella with a sturdy frame- it doesn't matter if the cover is tattered a bit. I got this one from my local antique furniture shop for £3. be careful to avoid umbrellas from budget shops- they will make you cry!
Try to remove the cap at the top of the umbrella, as this will make taking the cover off easier. However, sometimes it refuses to budge an sometimes you end up with damage like this. If this happens, don't worry and carefully make a cut in the cover at the top to take it off.
Remove the cover by removing the caps, then cutting the stitching on the frame then pulling it over the top.
Take the stitching off the caps to remove them. Some covers are stitched onto holes in the frame itself, in this case simply undo the stitching.
Cut one of the sections (preferably a decent one) off the cover. This will be your pattern.
Make allowances for any trims. Cut a small amount off the bottom for flat lace trim or ruffles. Here, I've also cut it into two sections for insertion lace.
Cut 8 new sections from your fabric, adding a seam allowance as you cut (if you trust yourself- if not, make paper copies of your section)
add flat trim to your sections before sewing them together. This will make sure they lie flat. If you're adding ruffles, sew them on after you've sewn the sections together.
Sew all the sections together to make a new cover.
Do a hand gathering stitch around the top of the cover.
Pull this tightly around the top of the frame, making it fit well.
Sew the caps to the edges of the joins between sections, then replace these on the frame. If your umbrella has holes instead, stitch the cover into these.
Neatly stitch the seam allowance to the frame just under the joint; this will keep the cover in place discreetly.
Cut a piece of trim that is 6 times as long as it is wide.
Sew this into a loop.
Hand gather this around the top of your parasol.
Glue gun a piece of trim around the cap of your parasol to hide any damage or raw edges. Also glue the ruffled trim to make it lie flatter on the cover.
Finally, tie a pretty ribbon around the parasol to secure it. This can tie around the handle when the parasol is up.