How to Build an Umbrella Stand

Nothing can dress up a foyer or entryway like a simple but unique umbrella stand. Although the common umbrella stand seems to have lost its popularity, its function is certainly anything but outdated. People still need to use umbrellas while walking outside when it rains or snows. Do your guests and your entryway a favor. Make an umbrella stand to provide your family and visitors with a handy spot for their wet umbrellas, and keep the floor dry at the same time. This will probably cost you almost nothing to make as you may have most if not all of what you'll need lying around the house.

Things You'll Need

• Tall, narrow sturdy box Plastic kitchen garbage bag Self-adhesive foam weatherstripping Tape, 1-inch wide Gift wrap Glue Gold or silver metallic paint Hobby knife or box cutter Stapler Measuring tape or ruler Scissors Small paintbrush Mod Podge

Instructions

1. Use the hobby knife or box cutter to remove all four flaps from the top of the box. Line the inside of the box with a plastic kitchen garbage bag, and staple it into place. Make sure that you attach the plastic bag very close to the top of the box.

2. Cover the box with gift wrap, just as you would when wrapping a present. Glue the paper securely into place, and give the glue a little time to dry completely. If you don't want to use wrapping paper, you can simply paint the box.

3. Measure the outside perimeter of the box with a tape measure or ruler. Cut two pieces of the weatherstripping to this length with scissors. Remove the protective paper from the adhesive side of the weatherstripping. Press one of the pieces into place all the way around the top edge of the wrapped or painted box, and the other one around the bottom, forming rims. Firm the rims securely into position.

4. Paint the weatherstripping rims with gold or silver metallic paint. Allow it to dry thoroughly.

5. Apply a coat of Mod Podge to the entire outer surface of the umbrella stand to strengthen and protect your materials. Allow the coat of sealant to dry according to the package instructions. Apply a second coat of Mod Podge, and let it dry thoroughly. Enjoy your new umbrella stand.