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When looking at all the important features to consider when choosing a patio umbrella, adding a touch of sparkle probably isn’t at the top of your list. An umbrella is there to provide shade, and it quietly gets on with it without demanding much attention. You’ve thought about what you should be using to safely weigh down a patio umbrella stand, where you need shade, and what color appeals to you, yet an umbrella offers more than mere practicality. With this DIY hack that involves adding beaded trim to your garden umbrella, this humble piece of outdoor furniture gets an extra special look and the upgrade it deserves.

When it comes to the overall feel of an outdoor space, paying attention to small details can make a big difference. According to legendary master designer, Charles Eames, “The details are not the details. They make the design.” Sunlight sparkling through dangling beads injects an instant splash of personality and charm. They’ll dance in the slightest breeze, adding movement and texture that brightens up a patio or pool area.

The best part of this design feature is that it won’t eat up extra floor space, require you to drill into walls, or cost you a fortune. The effect is subtle but adds a layer of playful sophistication that is simply delightful. If you don’t have an umbrella yet, an EliteShade USA Patio Umbrella will work well for this purpose.

All you need for this DIY is enough trim and a hot glue gun. For this purpose, a cordless glue gun, such as the Surebonder Cordless High Temperature Mini Hot Glue Gun, may be more convenient than the corded versions as you’ll be working outdoors. Work in small sections, apply the glue, and press the trim in firmly. Hold it in place for a few seconds to help the glue distribute evenly and penetrate both surfaces for a strong bond. Hot glue has a short drying time, so aim to work quickly.

Let the mood of your space dictate your choice of trim. For understated elegance, choose a beaded trim that blends in with the color of your umbrella. This makes it feel like a natural part of the umbrella. If you’re leaning towards bohemian patio ideas for a more relaxing outdoor space, pick out a contrasting color that goes with the overall vibe you want. You can opt for regular fringing or a beaded variety like the Yalulu Multicolor Ball Tassel Fringe Trim, as these add a sweet suncatcher element that is delightful. If you prefer something more natural, some trims are made using sea glass chips, or seashells. According to the video above, the trim should last around four years even in outdoor conditions, but you can extend the life of your upgrade by following tips on how to take care of the umbrella on your patio.