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Issue 6
The Spring Fling Issue
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Sewing In The Rain

Turn broken umbrellas into puddle-proof skirts

Tiffany Threadgould

Umbrellas, it seems, are strictly fair-weather friends. After a blustery downpour, their wire skeletons can be seen everywhere, jutting from garbage cans, cast off like yesterday’s news. But why trash good nylon just because it’s pulled over a flimsy frame? Rework that plaid parapluie into a faux Burberry skirt, or stitch a harlequin-style A-line from a multicolor model. They’re eye-catching, lightweight, and, best of all, waterproof.

$10

ingredients

  • Broken umbrella
  • Zipper, elastic, or drawstring
  • Clasp (optional)
  • Safety pin (optional)

tools

  • Fabric scissors
  • Iron
  • Needle and thread
  • Straight pins

MAKE IT

  1. Separate the umbrella’s panels from one another leaving the sewn edges intact (these will become the hem). The number you’ll need depends on your waist and hip measurements and the design you choose. We’ve supplied patterns for a circle skirt and a straighter, A-line look.

  2. Arrange the panels as shown.

  3. Pin and sew the panels together without closing the skirt. Circle skirt: Trim excess fabric and set aside. A-line skirt: Leave two 4” slits in the panels for walking room.

  4. Take the trimmings from Step 3 and fashion a 2” waistband (A-liners: Grab an unused panel). If the trimmings are too short for you waistline, sew two or more strips together.

  5. Fold the waistband in half lengthwise and iron at the lowest setting. Pin along the top edge of the skirt and sew in place.

  6. For an elastic or drawstring skirt, thread the material through the strip (attach a safety pin to the end for easy passage). If you’re using elastic, sew the ends to the waistband making sure the elastic is taut.

  7. Now close the skirt. For the zippered version, sew in the zipper and close. Accomplished sewers can add darts and a clasp for a snug fit.

  8. Time for some puddle jumping.