Cradle to Cradle points to the industrialized era as the beginning of the end -- when it comes to environmentally sound actions and principles. While umbrellas have been produced for hundreds and hundreds of years, they've been mass produced only recently in the 19th and 20th centuries. If we want to re-invent and redesign the umbrella, why not look to the past, in china where they perfected it. Their umbrellas were made from renewable resources, bamboo and rice, laced together beautifully. This umbrella is based on the idea that local materials can be used to create protection from water. If waxy leaves are prevalent in the area, like magnolia leaves, they are easily attached to the cotton under-layer, then patterned so as to allow water to glide off, like scales on a fish.

This umbrella kit is ordered and sent to the customer complete with the following:

-One 3 ft pure cotton fiber woven string (unprocessed)

-Hardware:

Pins and hinges and clasps made with pure aluminum, or other metal alternative, Not specifically designed for umbrella (could be for another use,would last at least 75 yrs.).

-Instructions printed with blackberry concentrates on biodegradable paper that contains wild flower seeds. (If tossed, seeds would potentially sprout).

-Eight-Natural cotton fiber woven panels for backing behind leaves.

Needed:

Collect leaves from area trees which are waxy.

For those in southern states of U.S., Magnolia leaves are large and in abundance. In tropical climates, palm leaves may be more appropriate. Laurel leaves and holly bushes also produce waxy leaves which can be attached easily to the cotton pieces. Once the rainy season is over, umbrella can be taken apart, repaired or bamboo parts replaced.

Collect three bamboo shoots, 10 inches per shoot. Approx. 1 in. diameter.

(or any other hollowed out wood piece-- local materials should be used.)

Collect 8 shoots of thin, but sturdy piece of wood for umbrella supports.

20060901-1322-4021