How to Build Your Own Awning & Save

Not only will an awning provide shade to your porch or deck, it also will lower the temperature in that area by a few degrees on particularly hot days. Unfortunately, awnings can be expensive. To save money, you can build your own awning by using inexpensive items you can find at craft stores and home improvement centers. In addition to being cheaper, building your own homemade awning allows you full control over the awning's look.

Outdoor canvas
Sewing machine
Thread
Sewing needle
Grommets
Power drill
Screw hooks
Key ring
Support holes

Instructions

- 1
  Determine the amount of canvas you will need for the awing. The amount of area you want the awing to shade will determine how much canvas you'll use. Use canvas that is slightly larger than the area you intend to shade.
- 2
  Sew hems around the edges of the canvas with a sewing machine to prevent the ends of the fabric from fraying.
- 3
  Add a grommet to each corner of the canvas. Measure the canvas from one grommet to the other. Drill a pilot hole on each side of the siding where you will attach the awning. Use the measurement to determine the location of the pilot holes.
- 4
  Insert a screw hook into each of the pilot holes. Place a key ring on each grommet that will go against the house. Attach each key ring to the corresponding screw hook.
- 5
  Stretch the awning canvas carefully outward to determine the proper placement of the support poles. Place the top of the support pole through the grommet and carefully pound the pole into the soil with a rubber mallet. Repeat the process for the second support pole.

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