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Turn your outdoor space into a shaded oasis!

Whether you have a small outdoor area or a sprawling backyard, finding the best patio cover for your space can be a game changer. If you're dreaming of hosting backyard parties and dining al fresco all summer long, a good shaded area can provide the perfect spot for patio furniture. Covering your patio is also one of the easiest ways to instantly transform your yard on any budget, especially when you add cozy additions like an outdoor fire pit or tie in some fresh landscaping ideas.

But with so many options to choose from, how will you know where to begin? That's where our recommendations come into play. Ahead, find genius ideas that'll have you excited to head to the nearest hardware store and pick up supplies for a patio revamp. Go for a sleek, modern look with natural fibers or corrugated metal, or create a whimsical atmosphere (perfect for a garden party!) with backyard lighting and fabric accents. The choice is yours! There are options on this list for quick five-minute fixes as well as full-scale renovations—so grab your tools, create your vision board, and get ready to increase the square footage of your home year-round.

If you already have a pergola, making your own fabric shade is a great way to elevate your space and keep the sun off your patio furniture.

Get the tutorial at Studio DIY.

How great is this patio cover transformation? The secret to this chic, minimalist look is a simple, fresh coat of white paint.

Get the tutorial at Sugar & Cloth.

Add some simple string lights to your patio cover to create instant ambiance. It's a quick and easy way to refresh your space without investing a ton of time or money.

Get the tutorial at Lemon Thistle.

If you've always wanted a pergola but don't love the look of galvanized steel, check out this tutorial. Here, a stunning wood structure is constructed with basic materials you can get from your local hardware store.

Get the tutorial at Jen Woodhouse.

Not all patio covers need to keep the light out. A clear sun roof is a great way to cover your patio without making things too dark.

Get the tutorial at Catz in the Kitchen.

A shade sail is a simple and effective way to cover your patio. Just anchor one end of the shade sail to the roof of your house, and secure posts at the other end.

Get the tutorial at House Tweaking.

Go all-out with a pavilion-style deck addition, complete with a ceiling fan to cool off on hot days.

Get the tutorial at Love Grows Wild.

If you have an old patio umbrella that's seen better days, paint it! This blogger recommends using a solid-colored umbrella and latex-based paint to re-create her look.

Get the tutorial at Lovely Indeed.

Dress up your patio cover for an elegant dinner party by creating a layered look with paper lanterns, string lights, and faux wisteria.

Get the tutorial at Room for Tuesday.

This stunning patio cover idea uses various colored fabrics to give this shaded seating area a playful aesthetic.

Get the tutorial at Mi Casa.

Another way to add dimension to your pergola is by adding sheer curtains with tie-backs. Simple, inexpensive mesh panels can help achieve this elevated effect.

Get the tutorial at Tidbits.

You can get the look and feel of a covered patio without having to actually build anything. Simply take advantage of natural shade in your yard, and add an umbrella if you want a little extra cover.

Get the tutorial at Homey Oh My.

Revamp a corrugated tin roof by pairing it with simple pendant lights. It's easy!

Get the tutorial at Vintage Revivals.

If you only want your patio covered sometimes, then a retractable awning is your best bet. It can be pulled back when you want a little extra sunshine.

Get the tutorial at Homemade by Carmona.