How to Make Pleated Shades for RV Windows

Pleated shades are great choices for window coverings on RV windows. They allow light when drawn and provide not only darkness but the necessary privacy when dropped in evenings. Shades may be made from a variety of fabrics and should be lined for both construction and function.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Tape measure
Fabric
Lining material
Ring tape
Hook and loop tape
Needles
Thread
Sewing machine.

Step 1

Measure the window area to be covered. Multiply the finished length by 1 ½. Add seam allowances to both the width and length measurements.

Step 2

Cut the fabric allowing for seam allowances, into the appropriate lengths.

Step 3

With right sides together, sew along the edges and the bottom. Turn right side out and press all edges flat.

Step 4

Cut lengths of pleating tape and pin to the right, center and left sides of the back of the shade. Take care to make sure all rings are evenly spaced. Stitch the tape down at side edges.

Step 5

Sew one side of hook and loop tape to the top edged of the shade. Attach the other hook and loop tape to the window frame. Thread string through all loops. Attach a cleat to the window frame to secure the ties when lifting and lowering.

Article Written By Heather Broeker

Originally from North Carolina, Heather Broeker studied journalism and advertising at the University of North Carolina. After graduation she moved to Los Angeles, where she worked for Fox Searchlight, Fox Reality and later as a writer and marketing director. Broeker now lives in Los Angeles and runs Head Over Heels, a writing and public relations company.

Editor's Pick

5 Top North American Wildflower Hikes

Springtime brings a sense of new beginnings and new life as flowers begin to bloom and fill the air with their sweet and pleasant fragrance. Luckily we can see wildflowers all summer long, since spring hits at different times throughout North America. See flowering cactu...
More National Parks...
Popular Article

National Park Substitutes: Great Spots Without the Crowds

Coping with crowds at national parks can get tiresome, especially during the peak tourist season. If you want to escape from the herd, or just take a breather from the bustle of bigger attractions, the United States has plenty of less-visited but still worthwhile spots t...
More National Parks...
Featured Destination

Prevent Yourself from Getting Lost While Hiking

When you're hiking you're going to want to make sure you stay found. What I mean by that is that you've put an itinerary in the car, you know the area that you're hiking to, you know the route and the trail you plan on being on, you know what the trail markers are going ...
More Camping Basics...