Umbrella bounce question.

when bouncing light off an umbrella, do i need a black cover? stupid question but thanks in advance.

Not a stupid question. You can use it either way actually. Check out this video where he shows you all the variations of umbrellas! http://www.lastolitesc​hoolofphotography.com/​using-the-8-in-1-umbrella

if bouncing off the umbrella, yes. if shooting thru, no.

i have a shoot thru umbrella, but also want to learn to bounce with it. what do you guys use to cover the umbrella, if your kit did not have one.

I'd spend $25 more and by a convertible umbrella (has removable backing)...

The only thing the black cover does is control the spill, it doesnt effect the bounce amount, As long as you dont mind light going through in the form of spill then the cover is unnecessary.