How to Use Trimmed Palm Fronds to Cover a Patio Umbrella

A thatch umbrella cover is attractive and fairly easy to make.

Making an umbrella covering from palm tree leaves, called fronds, is an inexpensive alternative to purchasing a thatch umbrella. Cut palm tree fronds specifically for the purpose or use palm fronds that you've collected from your yard.

Things You'll Need

• Outdoor umbrella
• Palm tree fronds
• Knife or shears
• Twine

Instructions

1. Measure the distance from the center to the edges of the umbrella and decide how much of an overhang you want. If you want the thatch to cover the umbrella canvas, cut the fronds 2 or 3 inches longer than the umbrella measurement. If you want a longer overhang, add 6 inches to the length of the leaves.

2. Dry the fronds. Whether you've cut them or collected leaves that had already fallen off trees, set them out in a low-moisture area for at least a week.

3. Place the fronds in a circle, with the thickest part of the branches or stems in the middle, tapering to the thinner section at the outer edges. Keep a few inches clear in the center. Use the twine to fasten the leaves together securely.

4. Repeat Step 3 until you've reached the desired thickness, usually two to six layers. Bind the layers together securely with the twine.

5. Slip the thatch over the top of your umbrella, fastening it with twine at the center and around the edges. If the overhang is uneven, trim it using a knife or shears.

Tips & Warnings

• To keep the thatch in good repair, don't handle it unnecessarily. Avoid opening and closing the umbrella frequently.

• Remove the thatch during windy weather. Remove it or cover it securely with plastic or a tarp before rain- and snowstorms.

References

• The Callaloo Company: "Thatch and Rain Capes"