How to Make an Awning Out of Canvas
- 1). Measure the width for the awning, using a window frame as a basis. Allow 3 inches on each side for installing the pole and hardware. Attach the pole holder hardware on the left and right exterior walls, using a drill and the appropriate drill bit. Insert the poles and secure them completely.
- 2). Stand on a ladder and get someone to help you measure the height for the awning, using the angle of the pole as a basis. Start the tape measure 6 inches above the window frame. Extend the tape measure at an angle until it meets the pole. Use this measurement to determine the height for the awning.
- 3). Draw a horizontal rectangle on a piece of paper to use as your pattern for the awning. Write down the height measurement on the right side and the measurement for the width on the bottom. Add 2 inches to the width, and 12 inches to the height. The extra inches will be used for sewing seams, the valance, and seams for inserting the PVC tubes.
- 4). Cut the canvas fabric according to your measurements. Cut a strip of canvas to the width of the awning and 4 inches tall. You will use this to create the insert for the PVC tube. Have the PVC tubes cut 4 inches longer than the width of the awning. You will use the extra inches to attach the tubes to the clamps at the top and on the support pole.
- 5). Turn the strip wrong side out and fold the edge over 1 inch on each side. Press flat. This piece will be used for inserting the PVC tube at the bottom for the valance. Pin the pressed canvas strip across the width of the bottom of the main piece for the awning, 8 inches from the bottom. Sew the strip to the main piece on your sewing machine.
- 6). Turn the main piece to the wrong side and create and turn over 1 inch on the bottom to create a hem. Iron the seam flat and top stitch the hem on your sewing machine.
- 7). Make the insert for the top PVC tube by turning the main piece over and folding over the fabric 3 inches. Press the fold flat. Sew a top seam line 1/2 inch from the top edge of the fabric. This will will leave an opening to insert the PVC tube for the top of the awning.
- 8). Attach the clamp for the PVC tube you will use for the top of the awning to the building. Do not completely tighten the clamp until after you insert the PVC tube (next step). Use a drill and the appropriate drill bit.
- 9). Insert the PVC tubes into the top and bottom openings. Stand on a ladder and get help to insert the PVC tubes into the clamps. Use a screwdriver to secure the clamp screws completely.
- 10
Attach clamps to each pole holder. Insert the PVC tubes through the clamp holes and tighten the screws to secure the valance and complete your awning project.
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