How do you make an umbrella?
Experienced umbrella manufacturer offering up answers to umbrella questions for you. We have been making umbrellas for brand owners, creative agencies and property developers for ten years. We’ve been asked all the questions and they may help you when discovering more about how to make an umbrella, what the parts of the umbrella are called and how to make an umbrella. As technology progresses, we keep moving and we’re pleased to offer recycled panels on an umbrella that still offer the same sturdy, reliable, waterproof umbrella, and windproof umbrella that we offer with a two-year guarantee for quality. We’re sure our umbrellas won’t let you down.
Here are some useful questions to consider when understanding how to make a customised umbrella.
What do you call the pieces of an umbrella?
The pieces of an umbrella all have their own name. There is the handle of the umbrella, the shaft or pole which is the straight section of the umbrella and what attaches the handle and ribs of the umbrella together. The ribs are the structure that open and close that have the panels of the umbrella sewn onto.
We only use the best components for our umbrellas, such as fibre glass ribs, which will flex and bend in windy and demanding conditions.
The panels of the umbrella can be assorted colours, printed inside and outside as well as be decorated with rib tape along the straight edges. The umbrella runner is the section that moves up and down the pole or umbrella shaft to open and close the umbrella.
For an automatic umbrella this action is complimented by a strong spring, that is released by a push of a button. The stretcher which is the section that opens out the ribs.
The tie wrap on an umbrella is what closes the umbrella shut when not in use.
Where can I put my logo on an umbrella?
Personalisation options on the umbrella can include
- Printed external panels or external canopy of the umbrella.
- Uniquely. we can offer printing on the internal panels of the umbrella, this can be anything from text, logo to full photographic image.
- We can embroider umbrellas, but this does have disadvantages and can make the umbrellas leak, at the point of embroidery. This is not so much a problem with a double canopy, as the second canopy can ensure the embroidery element doesn’t “leak”
- The handle ring can be engraved with a logo or text.
- By default we don’t supply sleeves for our umbrellas, but they can be supplied with simple sleeves to more detailed zipped cases and carry sleeves. These can be incorporated with a range of branding, print and detailing.
- Company logo on an umbrella can also be placed on a label that is sewn into the umbrella seams.
- The tie wrap which is what wraps around the umbrella to keep it closed can be printed or embroidered with a logo.
- Rib tape can be printed but is usually used as a contrast colour.
- On wood handled umbrellas we can engrave the handle itself.
- The popper that closes the tie wrap can also be embossed with a simple logo or icon.
- Golf umbrellas and folding umbrellas have a space on the end of the handle that include a branded decal with your company logo.
What are the metal pieces on an umbrella called?
Metal pieces on the umbrella are the finishing touches such as the metal handle ring or push button to open and close the umbrella. The pole on some umbrellas is also metal.
The tip of some of our luxury umbrellas have a metal tip cap.
Many of our walking style umbrellas have metal rib ends, either in gun metal, silver or gold colour.
What is the long stick in the centre of the umbrella called?
The stick in the centre of the umbrella is called the pole or shaft. It’s what the runner goes up and down on to open and close the umbrella.
This is made of several materials depending on the model.
- Metal – coated aluminium. Usually supplied black but can be Pantone matched.
- Wood – we use a standard mid oak coloured wood, though can offer a range of custom varnished wood colours to choose from.
- Fibreglass – fibreglass is used for the larger sport umbrellas as is both lightweight, allows an element of flex, but is extremely strong. This is usually supplied in black, but we do offer in range of 10 colours form stock, or Pantone matched for larger order quantities.
How to make umbrellas?
Umbrellas are part made by machine and part by people.
The sewing of umbrellas is an extremely skilled activity. The matching of the seams of the canopy is done by a person so it is correct and makes sense of the artwork.
When we print as a full panel both internal and external panels need to match and takes great experience and spatial ability to ensure everything lines up perfectly.
How are umbrellas made?
Umbrellas are made by cutting the panels of the pongee umbrella material into shape, leaving a margin (or hem) for them to be sewn onto the ribs. We will choose the method of printing depending on the nature of the artwork.
The key methods of umbrella printing we use is as follow.
- Screen printing
- Digital printing – direct to fabric
- Dye sublimation digital print
- Transfer print
When the umbrella panels are printed, then they are sewn onto the frame of the umbrella. The ribs, which are the sections of the frame that are wider when the umbrella is open and flat against the shaft when the umbrella is closed.
The frame of the umbrella is connected to the pole and the handles are fitted to suit the client specification of the umbrella. It’s at this point, an engraved handle ring or decal at the end of the handle will be fitted.
Once the umbrellas are made and after a thorough quality control check, they are then packaged up for transit to their destination.
What’s the top part of an umbrella called?
The top section of the umbrella is called the point which sits above the canopy of the umbrella. The umbrella canopy if the collective word for the panels of the umbrella. There are usually 8 umbrella panels, all of which can be customised with print, rib tape or labels sewn in at the seam.
How to repair an umbrella
Repairing a well-loved umbrella is possible. They can be sprayed with scotch guard to protect them if they have been damaged by a spillage that has affected how waterproof they are. If a rib becomes damaged, it’s possible to repair them with duct tape to ensure they continue to open and close. Our ribs are made from fibreglass and are unlikely to break unless they experience a great force or trauma such as trapping them in a car boot or using them to hit something with severe pressure.
If the panel of an umbrella becomes ripped, it can be taped together with hem tape that can be ironed on to seal it. If the tear is severe, then it is possible to hand sew the tear, then apply the hem tape that should be ironed on and then sprayed with a water proofing spray to seal it.
What materials do you need to make an umbrella?
Our umbrellas are made from a high-grade pongee which is a type of polyester. We usually use 190T Pongee fabric, but can offer 210T weight as well.
We can also use recycled polyester. This is called RPET and is made from reconstituted and recycled water bottles.
The shaft and ribs are made from fibreglass, metal or wood.
What is the best umbrella material?
The best umbrella material is high-grade polyester called pongee.
We offer this in a standard weight of 190T, but can offer a heavier 210T weight as well.
We can also manufacture recycled umbrellas using recycled polyester made from RPET fabric. This is called RPET, and is made from recycled water bottles.
How do you design an umbrella?
Using our helpful empty template to position artwork, you can design your umbrella and plot where your artwork should be. You can also photo print on an umbrella.
Here at Umbrella Workshop, we have a dedicated design team in house, and we can help you with developing your umbrella design. We just need to be supplied with your corporate brand guidelines, or any graphics, logos or colours you would like to use.
We can often get inspiration from your website and replicate themes and colours from this to make a striking umbrella design.
How do you make a fabric umbrella?
The simple answer is the fabric panels of the umbrella canopy are cut out from a long roll and then printed before they are sewn onto the ribs of the umbrella.
Umbrellas are made by cutting the panels of the pongee umbrella material into shape, leaving a margin (or hem) for them to be sewn onto the ribs. We will choose the method of printing depending on the nature of the artwork.
The key methods of umbrella printing we use is as follow.
- Screen printing
- Digital printing – direct to fabric
- Dye sublimation digital print
- Transfer print
When the umbrella panels are printed, then they are sewn onto the frame of the umbrella. The ribs, which are the sections of the frame that are wider when the umbrella is open and flat against the shaft when the umbrella is closed.
The frame of the umbrella is connected to the pole and the handles are fitted to suit the client specification of the umbrella. It’s at this point, an engraved handle ring or decal at the end of the handle will be fitted.
Once the umbrellas are made and after a thorough quality control check, they are then packaged up for transit to their destination.
How do you customise an umbrella?
To customise an umbrella, you can personalise the handle ring of the umbrella through engraving. The inside of the umbrella panels can be printed with your artwork, photo printing on the umbrella is also possible. The outside of the umbrella canopy can also be printed with your artwork. For a subtle hint at your brand, a woven label can be sewn into the panels of the umbrella on either outside or the inside.
How do you print a logo on an umbrella?
The panels of the umbrella are cut from a roll and then they are printed. The relevant print method is chosen depending on the artwork. Intricate patterns will require a digital print and a simpler or just bold single colours will require a screen print.
What are umbrella printing methods?
Print methods for an umbrella include digital printing on an umbrella and screen-printing umbrellas.
How many ribs should an umbrella have?
An umbrella has 8 ribs for the umbrella fabric panels to be sewn onto. When looking up into an umbrella it looks like a giant spider. This is the frame of the umbrella, and the “legs” are ribs.
What is the frame of an umbrella called?
The frame or structure of the umbrella can also be referred to as the ribs of the umbrellas. The ribs are the bendy bits that make the shape of the umbrella that sits over your head as a shelter.
What umbrella is best for wind?
Not all umbrellas are made equal! Umbrellas made by the Umbrella Workshop are windproof. They are tried and tested at speed by holding them in a moving car. They will only fold inside out at 30mph speed. This offers you peace of mind that our umbrellas are windproof and won’t let you down.
What is the umbrella cloth called?
The umbrella cloth is called pongee. Pongee is the umbrella cloth that forms the canopy of the umbrella. Pongee cloth is a high-grade polyester.
What is the fabric part of the umbrella called?
The fabric part of the umbrella is called umbrella panels. The umbrella panels are rectangular.
What’s a custom umbrella?
A custom umbrella is made specifically for a brand or organisation. A custom umbrella is truly bespoke print and personalisation for the customer ordering it. No other company will have the same custom umbrella.
How long does it take to make an umbrella?
It can take up to half an hour to make one umbrella. Taking into consideration the cutting, printing, constructing the ribs and the handles, sewing and finishing touches.
Where are umbrellas made?
Our umbrellas are made in the UK and China. We have a wonderful collaboration with two factories that we’ve worked with for ten years.
Can you recycle umbrellas?
Yes, umbrellas can be recycled. The panels of the umbrella can be recycled in textile waste. The fibreglass can be melted and reformed and reused.
Can you make recycled umbrellas?
The Umbrella Workshop can make recycled umbrellas. The panels of the umbrella can use recycled polyester.
Are umbrellas eco-friendly?
Umbrellas that last a lifetime are eco-friendly. An umbrella that can be given as a gift and be used for decades is a durable and long-lasting product that doesn’t need updating or remaking. Choosing inferior parts will create a poor umbrella that won’t be eco-friendly and durable.
Can I get a sample of an umbrella with my logo on?
Yes. The Umbrella Workshop can print logos on umbrella and the supply a pre-production sample for you to approve before the full order is manufactured.
How many umbrellas can I order?
You can order as many umbrellas as you like. Our minimum order quantity starts at 50.
Some of more complex designs and prints require 100 pieces as a minimum. This is due to wastage and our exceptionally high-quality control.
Who makes umbrellas?
The Umbrella Workshop makes umbrellas. Factories make umbrellas and use a combination of people and machines to construct them.
We’ve been making umbrellas for over 10 years, we have factories in both the UK and Far East.
Are umbrellas made by hand?
Yes, umbrellas are made by hand and machines.
Are umbrellas made by machine?
Umbrellas are made by machines and people who carefully match together artwork to ensure its continuous.
Can I print a photo on an umbrella?
Yes, photos can be printed on umbrellas.
Can I print a map on an umbrella?
Yes, maps can be printed on umbrellas on the outside and inside panels of the umbrella.
If you have any questions that you think would be useful to add in here, then please get in touch so we can include them to help other people.
If you would like to manufacture a custom umbrella, then we’d love to help you with that. Get in touch and we can help you create the perfect luxury gift umbrella.
The Umbrella Workshop
The Umbrella Workshop are experts in umbrella manufacture. With ten years of experience, we’ve worked with some of the best-known brands and household names as well as interesting galleries and retailers. If you would like to join then and make a luxury umbrella to last a lifetime, then get in touch with us to make that happen. To accompany your bespoke umbrella, you can talk to us about luxury branded merchandise and customised high-end fabric bags and packaging by discussing with our sister companies The Bag Workshop for personalised packaging and Wurlin for luxury branded gifts.
