THE HOMEMADE THERMAL SHADE

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PUTTING UP AND SHUTTING OUT

With all that done, it's time to attach the Velcro. Because of its superior adhesive qualities, we found it best to separate the nubby Velcro strips from their fuzzy "mates" at the outset, as they tend to tangle at your ankles while you're trying to attach them to the slippery thermal shade.

We decided to opt for Mike Westbrook's novel Velcro application idea, even though it does call for quite a few yards of the expensive fastener. We sewed the fuzzy side of the tape along the top and halfway down each side on the rear of the shade. Then, to the remaining edges, we attached the gripper side of the tape. Next, we stapled the corresponding strips of Velcro along the edge of the window frame. This method allows the shade, when not in use, to be folded into either a pillow cover or a child-sized sleeping bag, and the technique worked so well that we decided the cost of the Velcro was justified.

However, there are other methods of fastening the thermal quilt to the window casing that would considerably reduce the cash outlay. One obvious technique would be to attach continuous stretches of Velcro only at the corners, with snippets of that material strategically placed along the edges. Then again, you could attach cloth casings along the top and bottom edges of the rear of the shade and thread lath through them — then simply staple through the wood into the window casing. Yet another possibility would be to secure the lath to the woodwork with thumbtacks or upholsterer's tacks. (Other folks claim success using magnets and magnetic strips, but we haven't actually tried this method.)

The Velcro technique described works pretty well and it looks OK, too — mainly because it allows you to place your quilt behind a window's drapes or shutters. Thus, the method of attachment is hidden by the existing window treatment, a feature most commercial thermal coverings can't boast.

THE CARE AND FEEDING OF A THERMAL CURTAIN

Mike Westbrook tells us that his window quilts admit sufficient light, and he very seldom feels the need to remove them during the day. Some folks will undoubtedly desire more sunshine, though, and if you've attached the quilts by means of Velcro you can easily peel them off, or even reposition the shades at half-mast to let in more light.

Those who decide to leave the curtains constantly in place should be forewarned that moisture may condense on the windows and run down into the wells, although the inclusion of a vapor barrier in the shades will alleviate this problem somewhat. The best way to deal with this annoying situation is to check frequently behind the drape, wipe away any condensation, and then replace the curtain. There may even be some mold formation where moisture has been allowed to collect. In this case prevention is the best cure: Periodically wipe the window surfaces and wells with a rag dipped in diluted liquid chlorine bleach.

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