Do paper umbrellas work in the rain?

Do paper umbrellas work in the rain?

Paper umbrellas, especially traditional Chinese paper umbrellas, are designed and made with use in the rain in mind.

一、Selection of rainproof raw materials

1, Rainproof material – tung oil
Tung oil is a kind of plant extracted substance (the oil obtaine by pressing the seeds of the tung tree), the main component is triglyceride.
When the paper surface of the paper umbrella coated with multiple layers of tung oil, the surface will form a layer of waterproof membrane.this layer of membrane can isolate the paper and rain contact, play the role of rain and waterproof.

2, Cotton paper
Cotton paper is different from ordinary paper,

• high density,
• high toughness,
• high water resistance,
• high plant fiber,
• not easy to break
• other excellent characteristics.

Cotton is mainly use: cotton, hemp, bamboo and other materials rich in plant fibers as a carrier, the production process is very complex and difficult.

After testing, the cotton paper use for paper umbrellas can be well protected against rain without brushing oil.

 

二、How to maintain the paper umbrella after use?

Here are some suggestions for maintenance:

1. Avoid prolong sun exposure
Prolonged exposure to sunlight may cause the color of the umbrella to fade or the paper properties to change.

Not only that, since paper umbrellas are bamboo products, bamboo will become brittle under prolong sun exposure, leading to easy damage.

2. Protection from moisture
Although paper umbrellas are designe to protect against rain, prolonged exposure to humidity may lead to moldy surfaces or deformation of the umbrella’s bones by moisture.

Dry it completely after use and place a desiccant before putting it away.

3. Regular Cleaning
If the surface of the paper umbrella is staine with dust or dirt, you can use a clean soft cloth dippe in water to gently wipe it. Don’t use any chemical cleaner to avoid damaging the oil layer of the umbrella surface.

 

4. Avoid heavy pressure
The bone and surface of the paper umbrella are relatively fragile, so heavy pressure or bending should be avoid. When fold, it should be fold gently to avoid excessive force.

5. Regular oiling
In order to maintain the waterproof performance of the paper umbrella, you can periodically re-coat the umbrella surface with a thin layer of tung oil or other suitable waterproof oil.

Make sure the surface of the umbrella is clean and completely dry before applying oil.

 

6. Storage
When storing paper umbrellas, choose a dry and ventilated place. Avoid storing the umbrella in a damp or airtight environment. Store the umbrella in an upright position with the handle facing downwards, or flat on a dry surface.

 

7. Repairing Damage
If the surface of the paper umbrella is torn or broke, it should be repaire promptly. You can use special paper umbrella repair tools and materials, or seek our help.

 

8. Avoid high temperature

High temperatures may cause the material of the umbrella to become brittle or deform. Therefore, avoid placing the umbrella next to a heater or in direct sunlight.

 

9. Regular Inspection
Regularly check the bone and surface of the oil-paper umbrella to make sure there is no damage or deformation. If problems are found, repair them promptly.

 

三、summary

Through these maintenance measures, you can effectively extend the service life of the paper umbrella and keep its original beauty and function.

The paper umbrella is not only a practical tool, but also a part of traditional Chinese culture, and proper maintenance helps to pass on and appreciate this traditional handicraft.