What is an umbrella made of?

Since the invention of the umbrella, the most important elements have remained the same to this day. Every umbrella basically consists of four main elements:

1. Pole (shaft)
2. Handle
3. Ribs
4. Canopy

A general distinction is made between walking umbrellas and pocket umbrellas as basic types. While walking umbrellas have a longer history and were originally used mainly as parasols, pocket umbrellas in their modern form were only invented in the 1930s. Pocket umbrellas are characterised by a compact frame that can be collapsed down. Despite this major advantage of pocket umbrellas, walking umbrellas remain very popular because they generally offer greater stability and span than pocket umbrellas.

In the past, umbrella making was a traditional craft. This trade has meanwhile largely disappeared from Central Europe. Only a few small workshops remain in Europe that still manufacture umbrellas today. Especially when it comes to promotional umbrellas, Schirmmacher is one of very few suppliers of umbrellas made in Europe.

Find out more details about the manufacturing process here: umbrella manufacturing

The modern automatic umbrella is the result of continuous development of the basic design, which has been enhanced by a few additional elements.

• When it comes to improvements and innovations, the main focus tends to be on making canopies smaller, lighter and more stable. The discovery of new materials, in particular, is consequently driving changes in canopy manufacturing.
• New ideas in design and features are constantly emerging, ranging from reverse-opening umbrellas (Future Inverse) to umbrellas with built-in torches in the handle (Safebrella).
• The design focuses on new advertising and printing options. For instance, there are umbrellas whose colour changes when they get wet, as well as highly reflective ones that provide extra safety when walking in traffic.

The umbrella has become a popular promotional item over the years. In particular, companies have umbrellas printed with their logos or other designs. While umbrellas are usually screen-printed, digital printing is becoming increasingly common. This makes the design possibilities virtually limitless.