How we Create our Patio Umbrellas

Patio Umbrellas Made by Hand--Every Step of the Way

The patio umbrella frames are handmade from "tai maipai" a strong, flexible bamboo. All the bamboo is cut to size and then immersed in an insecticide solution to assure that it is not compromised by pests. The umbrella frame is then assembled and several layers of cotton are applied to create the shade. A natural waterproofing solution is used throughout the process to completely permeate the fabric and make it totally waterproof.

This preliminary coating is then allowed to dry before 3 additional coats of synthetic enamel (similar to extreior house paint) are added. This assures a bright, long-lasting color, adds to the weatherproofing and extends the life of the waterproofing and generally improves the durability of the shade. After these 3 coats have dried, the umbrella canapy is mounted on a 2-piece solid oak pole to complete the patio umbrella.

It then goes to the quality testing area to assure that everything is perfect--the umbrella opens and closes without trouble, the colors are uniform and have dried to the proper shades, that the dimensions are accurate and that the fixtures are clean and working trouble-free.

But at this point, the work is just beginning: The umbrella is technically complete, but it must be given life! The new patio umbrella is given to the our staff of artists, and a master is chosen to paint his masterpiece entirely by hand--unique every time, exactly to a customer's specifications. He again uses waterproof, oil-based paints which stay bright and vibrant, rain or shine to create your patio umbrella masterpiece.