How to Make a Patio Canopy

Preparation and Sewing

• 1

  Measure the slab over which the awning will stand. Add a 4-inch easement on all sides. This will be your decorative overhang.

• 2

  Have the lumber store cut each section of posts and poles to match your measurements.

• 3

  Use the disposable foam brush and stain the wooden posts. Use two or three coats, drying thoroughly between coats.

• 4

  Cut two 8-foot squares of vinyl plus 4 inches more on each side of the outside piece for the overhang.

• 5

  Pin the two sides of vinyl right sides together. The inside liner will be 4 inches inside the outside.

• 6

  Begin a line of stitching 2 inches in at the edge of the liner to within 2 inches of the back.

• 7

  Sew a second line of stitching 2 inches parallel to the first line. This casing will hold one side pole and it leaves room for the perpendicular casing to be completed without closing access to the end sides.

• 8

  Repeat Steps 5 to 7 on the second side.

• 9

  Mark a perpendicular line just outside of the previously stitched casing. This line begins where the second parallel line of the other casing ends.

• 10

  Sew two lines of casing 2 inches parallel. Leave the ends open. Repeat on the other side. You have now sewn casings along four sides to hold the awning posts. Make sure not to block the openings for either side of the casings.

• 11

  Miter the corner overhang or cut each up to the casing edge so that they hang evenly

Constructing the Canopy

• 12

  Insert side poles and end poles. It is not necessary to close the ends of the casings because you will drill straight through each of the poles into your support posts to secure the frame.

• 13

  Use the posthole digger to dig four 1-foot holes at the four corners of your patio slab.

• 14

  Set each post into the hole and fill with quick drying concrete. Use a level to make sure each post is vertically even. Make sure that the center of each pole is exactly measured to match the top awning frame.

• 15

  Wait for the concrete to properly cure or harden before proceeding.

• 16

  Lift the awning frame up onto the top of the posts. This is easily done with a friend to hold the opposite corner steady.

• 17

  Drill holes through both side and back poles into the post.

• 18

  Drop in wood glue and screw both in place.

• 19

  Repeat at all four corners and the vinyl awning will be securely anchored to the side posts.