Umbrella Makers
Plate M-46 · 27 stores · curated ORBIS register
Der Schirmmacher Rolf Lippke makes umbrellas to order, continuing a family trade that began with umbrella repairs in North Bohemia in 1882. Kyoto's Hiyoshiya works in oiled paper and bamboo, carrying the traditional kyo-wagasa umbrella into its present production. James Smith & Sons sells umbrellas from its New Oxford Street shopfront, with an in-house repair department supporting the London business.
What makes great umbrella makers?
This plate lists 27 shops in 14 countries. London has the most, with 4.
Ask how the frame is made: ask about the number of ribs and the material of the shaft, since those parts take the wind.
Ask about repairs: a shop that replaces ribs and canopies can keep one umbrella in use for many years.
Ask how it travels: check the closed length before buying if the umbrella has to fit in luggage or a cabin bag.
Explore umbrella makers
Use the city plates when they appear below, or open any store for its official door and related ORBIS city and craft links.