It would be great for storing paint brushes, especially if they’re still a little damp when you put them away. Or use it for a bottle of something you’re afraid might leak when traveling?

I actually sent this in but have been inspired by today’s craft guide in the Guardian and now have several ideas for my umbrella cover! Unpicking the long stiched side, sewing up the open end and attaching poppers or similar would make a pencil case/ make up holder etc.
Or even easier would be to make a purse/ glasses case holder along the lines of this one:
http://lifeandhealth.guardian.co.uk/guides/craft/story/0,,2001231,00.html

Roll up a cloth shopping bag, put it inside the cover, and keep it in your handbag so that you have no excuse to refuse plastic carrier bags ever again :)

The colored fabric could make for an interesting doll dress for your daughter/niece/etc or part of a blanket

You can make a parachute with an action figure at the end of the string as a toy for you son/grandson

Use it for arts and crafts. Make a card, use it as wrapping paper. It looks colorful so it will be perfect for any decorative design.

cut the fabric off and wrap it around your head, cut eye holes in it and use it as a mask when robbing a bank.

Use it with some rope to strangle someone.

use it to make a rodent tunnel.Maybe a support for tree seedlings?

Find an empty plastic bottle, cut the top off the bottle, slide the bottle into the umbrella case, fill bottle with water, position flowers in bottle.

Tres pretty.