Some people spend every free weekend in the backyard. They have a grill they actually use, a patio they keep rearranging, and a list of projects for next spring. These gift ideas are for them: practical things that make an outdoor space more comfortable, and that they will use for years.
A shade sail for next summer
A shade sail turns a sunny patio, deck or pergola into a place you can sit in July. It is a good winter gift because it gets installed in spring, right when they start planning the yard. If you are not sure of the size, a gift note that says "we'll measure together in March" works, and our shade sail size guide walks through the measuring.
- For big spans or windy yards: the Super Ring heavy duty sail with hardware, 260 GSM fabric with reinforced corners.
- For an odd-shaped space: a custom size sail, made to their measurements. See custom sizes.
The hardware kit they keep putting off
Anyone who already has a shade sail knows the hardware is what makes it last. A 6-inch stainless steel hardware kit (pad eyes, turnbuckles and snap hooks) is a small gift that fixes a sagging sail. Our hardware guide explains which size to pick.
A cushion made for their bench
Outdoor benches and built-in seats rarely match standard cushion sizes. A custom size cushion is cut to the exact length and depth, so it fits like it came with the bench. For a seat that stays outside, pick a waterproof fabric such as our waterproof chenille bench cushion. More on fabrics in the waterproof outdoor bench cushion guide.
Not sure which color they would like? Our fabric samples let them choose, and you can give the cushion as a "pick your color" gift.
Privacy for the patio
If their yard backs onto a busy street or a neighbor's window, a privacy screen on the existing fence makes the patio feel private in an afternoon. It is one of the easiest backyard upgrades to install. See how to choose a privacy fence screen and our privacy fence screens.
Order dates for Christmas
Custom pieces are made in 1-3 business days and shipped within 3-7 days. To have a custom order arrive before Christmas, order by December 10. For more cushion ideas, see our custom cushion gift guide.