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Glen, a third generation umbrella maker, takes full rolls of water-repellant cotton, nylon, or polyester and splits them in half, using a knife with a rotating blade. After the half rolls have been hemmed, Glen cuts the triangular umbrella panels. The knife will cut through 50 layers of fabric at a time. |
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| These panels are then sewn together, usually eight per
umbrella, to form complete umbrella covers. Stripes and
patterns are carefully arranged to create an attractive
umbrella. A tie-around with a snap closure is sewn into
one seam on each umbrella. |
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Onto the complete umbrella covers wood, metal or plastic
tips are sewn, which will later be pulled onto the ends
of the ribs. |
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| The cover is then attached to the umbrella frame. The frame is a pre-assembled unit of a shaft and 8-16 ribs. The tacking machine sews the cover onto each rib in the middle. |
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Finally, the tips are pulled on to the ends of the ribs, the umbrella is rolled neatly, and a handle is drilled to the correct diameter of the shaft. The handle is then glued in place.
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