Introduction: How to Make Sturdy Umbrella Stands for Under $15
In this tutorial I will show you how to make sturdy umbrella stands for under $15.
We recently added a pool and deck to our home and added some tables with chairs along with umbrellas to the mix. My concern was the wind, and also what if I wanted to move an umbrella to provide a little shade when I am laying out on the day. A little shade to cover my face for instance.
So I needed something to hold the umbrella and I didn't want to spend $80 on an umbrella holder. I like to MAKE things and I wanted to see if I could get by cheaper.
What you will need.
1. A Pot ( like a flower pot) You can get these at any Lawn and Garden or hardware store, even Wal-Mart. I have seen some for as little as $5 that are plastic.
2. Some PVC pipe. I had some lying around, but you can get a 10' piece for around $4 at your local hardware store. I used 1-1/2 inch pipe
3. A bag of quickcrete. I bought an 80 pound bag that did both of my pots equally. The bag was only $5 at the local hardware store.
4. A hacksaw or other cutting device to cut the pvc pipe with
5. Wheelbarrow or something to mix the concrete in.
6. A Hoe or other garden tool to mix the concrete.
Now lets begin.
Step 1: Cut Your Pipes
I had two pots around the house and I cleaned them out and put my pipe in the pot and marked where I wanted to cut with a marker. For me it was about an inch over the top of the pot.
I used a hacksaw, but you can use anything that will cut the PVC pipe to the length you specified for yourself.
I positioned it in the center and then used painters tape to hold it in place so that I could pour the concrete in the pot around the pipe.
I used a hacksaw, but you can use anything that will cut the PVC pipe to the length you specified for yourself.
I positioned it in the center and then used painters tape to hold it in place so that I could pour the concrete in the pot around the pipe.
Step 2: Mix the Concrete
With your wheelbarrow or other container to mix concrete in, empty your bag of mix and add water according to the directions on the bag.
I made mine match a consistency of peanut butter.
I made mine match a consistency of peanut butter.
Step 3: Pour Into the Pots
Next you will pour the concrete into the pots slowly, being careful not to rush. Pour a little on each side of the pipe.
Use a painters stick or something to help spread the concrete around the pipe.
Use a painters stick or something to help spread the concrete around the pipe.
Step 4: After the Pour
After the pour is complete, you can remove the tape and if your mix is good the pipe will not move easily.
Now is a good time to add some marbles or something into the top of the concrete to add flare to your creation.
Now is a good time to add some marbles or something into the top of the concrete to add flare to your creation.
Step 5: Drill Some Drainage Holes
There may come a time when it rains and will fill it up if its not smooth level with the top of the pot. I took a 1/8th drill bit and drilled several holes to allow the water to drain right down the middle of the pipe and out the bottom.
Step 6: Finished Product
Nice! You just made some decorative portable umbrella stands on the cheap!
These way about 50 pounds a piece.
These way about 50 pounds a piece.