Not only can outdoor fabric help to transform your outside space with minimal outlay, while impressing friends and family with your creativity, but improving your outdoor space can add value to your property, too.
Here, SoGlos rounds up 10 ways you can update everything from deckchairs to parasols, as well as entertain the kids and up your tablescaping game with outdoor fabrics specially designed to keep their colour and cope with spillages, UV rays and the odd downpour.
Outdoor dining accessories
For those who are just starting out with sewing and crafting, some of the best projects to begin with are simple ones like cutlery holders – or even an apron for the king or queen of the BBQ! See justfabrics.co.uk for an apron-making tutorial with just five steps.
Cushions
Re-cover some old cushions or pick up some pads and create your own from scratch. For outdoor use, soft cotton canvas or water-resistant and washable dralon is best. Look out for outdoor fabrics that have been UV treated to help them keep their colour, as well.
Bunting
If you’re planning a street party to celebrate the jubilee this summer and need decorations in patriotic red, white and blue, or want to create a party atmosphere in your back garden ahead of BBQ season, bunting can add a real sense of occasion.
Deckchairs
Deckchairs can really lose their lustre over time, but replacing the sling with some classic striped or statement fabric could give your outdoor seating another lease of life – and need not be more than 30 minutes in the making! Try the deckchair tutorial on justfabrics.co.uk.
Parasols
A beautiful parasol could be the focal point of any patio, so if your old one has faded into the background, consider giving it a fresh new look by replacing the canopy. Of course, UV protection qualities are key when shopping for outdoor fabric for this purpose.
Patio furniture upholstery
Re-upholstering your bench, swing seat or – if you’re feeling adventurous – patio sofa can really transform your whole outdoor space on a budget. Pastel colours and boho patterns are among the latest trends for 2022.
Beanbags
To make an outdoor beanbag, you’ll need some outdoor fabric; colour fast, mould-resistant and easy to clean. Whether you want something neutral or bright and colourful, Just Fabrics offers plenty of plain and patterned options to choose from.
Teepees for kids
An excellent way to make use of fabric scraps, teepees are easier to make than you might expect – and promise to keep little ones entertained for hours, making dens with treasured toys, cosy cushions and blankets.
Custom-made awnings
Create some welcome shade this summer by putting up an awning in your garden, either over the dining table or where the kids tend to play. To ensure the fabric you choose is up to the job, you’ll want to opt for something UV resistant, water-repellent and colour fast.
Tablecloths
Gloss or matt finish PVC tablecloths not only wipe clean and help protect wooden tables from unsightly stains and spillages, but can also add an extra something to your next outdoor dinner party; especially now tablescaping has become an art form.
