Duct Tape Umbrella

Going to the great outdoors? Don't forget your handy dandy duct tape umbrella! Waterproof, lightweight, and just plain awesome, this umbrella is a must-have on your adventure or trip! This instructable can be used to fix or improve a broken, damaged, old, or boring umbrella for as little as $2!

This is an umbrella I made out of an old, broken umbrella, and half of a roll of duct tape. These simple steps will show you how to make your very own!

These are the only things you need:

1- Roll of Duct Tape
1- Umbrella (Old or broken, because buying a new one defeats the purpose of fixing an old one)
1- Pair of Scissors
30- Minutes of Free Time

This project may be dangerous. Broken parts from the umbrella, or the scissors may pose a danger in some cases. I got cut by a broken part of the umbrella I was trying to fix. It turned out to be a large gash through the side of my finger. (For those users on the more squeamish side, I didn't actually take a picture of the gash itself).

With the pair of scissors, completely remove the fabric from the umbrella. The metal rods which provide support and curvature will pop up, so be careful. It will loose its curvature, but it will come back. 

The first row of tape should be horizontal. It should go around the outer edge. You should do this one section at a time. Put the tape on tightly so the umbrella curves again. Continue this process until you  have enough rows of tape to reach the middle of the rods.

This is the harder part. Take long strips of tape, and string them from the very center point of the umbrella. Stretch them until they reach the previously made inner edge. Go around in a circle, repeating this process until the middle of the umbrella is covered. It is best to go over the ends of the strips with another horizontal piece.

This is optional, because the umbrella is probably broken, and can't close in the first place. It's simple. Just put duct tape ofer the underside so it's not sticky (Adhesive side touching adhesive side).

I hope you enjoyed this instructable and your umbrella! Vote for me!