Here in the land of horrible summer sun, we use brights in shaded areas, such as covered porches & gazebos & pool houses, & in full sun we stick with unbleached cotton & such.

One thing that occurred to me just now, but I don't know if it would work, is a protective spray like Scotchguard.

Best luck!

Thanks, but the reason for the umbrellas etc are because there is little shade in my backyard. We have removed all the grass and made paths leading to different planting beds and seating areas... so I really need to do more than shade them or protect them with Scotchguard because they are in mint condition with the exception of fading.

I want to bump this back up..... I find it hard to believe that with all the do it yourselfers and trail blazers, no one has done anything to refurbish cushions..... I suppose I could sew new covers but the price of the sun fabrics is almost as daunting as the cushions themselves..... so please if anyone has tried painting, dying or some other form of giving new life to outdoor cushions , please let me know.....thanks to all who read this....

WarehouseFabricsInc.com outdoor fabric at $3.50 per yard! Check them out! You'll be glad you did!