Create shade with a handmade sun sail
Sew your own sun sail
A sun sail provides lovely shade on warm summer days and makes it even cosier to enjoy the terrace, balcony or a quiet corner of the garden.
The best part is that you can sew a sun sail that suits your needs perfectly. Choose the fabric that matches your style and create a sun sail you can enjoy all summer long.
You don’t need to be an expert. We’ll guide you through each step, so you can get started with confidence.
Start by taking your measurements
1. Choose the location
Start by deciding where you want your sun sail to hang. It could be above your patio, on a balcony or in a cosy corner of the garden. Also consider how the sun moves throughout the day, so you get shade exactly where you'll enjoy it most.
2. Identify your fixing points
Decide where the sun sail will be attached. It can be fixed to a wall, a post or a sturdy tree.
3. Measure the distance between the fixing points
Measure the area where the sun sail will hang. Remember to leave a little space between the sun sail and the fixing points so it can be tensioned properly.
4. Add seam allowance
Add at least 5 cm all the way around for seam allowance. This gives you enough fabric for a strong hem and a neat finish.
5. Allow for a slight slope
It's a good idea to install the sun sail with a slight slope so rainwater can run off more easily. This will help keep your sun sail looking its best for longer.
Choose the right fabric
Once you've taken your measurements, it's time to choose your fabric. For a sun sail, we recommend awning fabric, as it's specifically designed for outdoor use. It's durable, water-repellent and made to withstand many hours in the sun. The result is a sun sail you can enjoy summer after summer.
Now for the finishing touches
Now it's time to decide how you'd like to finish the corners of your sun sail. These are the points that allow you to tension it securely, and there are several good options to choose from.
The image shows four different ways to prepare your sun sail for hanging.
If you're looking for a simple and discreet finish, eyelets can be
a great choice.
If you need a strong and durable finish, D-rings sewn onto heavy-duty webbing are an excellent option. The webbing is designed to withstand heavy loads and provides extra strength around the fixing points. Choose the solution that best suits your outdoor space and the way you want to hang your sun sail.
Top sewing tips
Use the right needle
An universal needle, size 90/100 is ideal for heavy-duty awning fabric and helps produce neat, even stitches.
Choose a polyester sewing thread
A polyester sewing thread is durable and well suited to outdoor projects, as it withstands both sunlight and moisture better.
Sew a double-fold hem
A double-fold hem creates a neat finish and adds extra strength along the edges.
Use Wonder Clips
Wonder Clips hold the layers in place without leaving holes in the fabric, making them a great alternative to pins.
Reinforce the corners
The corners are under the greatest strain. Sew a few extra rows of stitching around the webbing, D-rings or eyelets to give them extra strength.
Enjoy making your sun sail
You're all set to get started. Gather your materials and enjoy creating a sun sail that will provide lovely shade all summer long.
One extra tip: It's a good idea to take your sun sail down during strong winds and store it somewhere dry when it's not in use for longer periods. That way, you can enjoy it summer after summer.
