HOW TO Make DIY Thermal Van WINDOW COVERS From Insulation And Carpet

[@Chriswoodworker]

I wouldn't call them an attempt mate, you did a fantastic job. I would call them well-made perfection.

[@MrsAvonRep29]

Facts 💯

[@paula.the.wannabe.hauler]

True that. I’ve just bought my stuff, best video on KZbin for this. Thanks for sharing.

[@JSGroupofCompanies]

@@MrsAvonRep29 how much would you charged for a 2022 Honda Accord?

[@freetob1]

I agree, very nice!!!

[@peggyroberts6476]

Being a retired machinist, that was an ingenious design and professional fabrication video. Thank you! My van window project will need a lot of patience. You were easy to listen to.

[@lindzhoward7752]

Your attention to detail on this build is second to none, looking great so far ! I love how these covers have turned out.

[@LensOfJames]

Thanks Lindz, glad you like them!

[@vociferonheraldofthewinter2284]

You might want to consider using suction cups on the smaller windows even though they stay in place by themselves. The air gap increases the R value considerably. They'll actually do a better job. Significantly better.

[@thorntontarr2894]

Clearly described and explained. This video shows high quality design, technique and results. But the real highlight - an outstanding video production with very satisfying sound. Brilliant, mate.

[@khas684]

This is the kind of perfectionist van content I crave ;) They look professionally made, well done!

[@Rasher1974]

Your attention to detail James is the best I've seen.

[@LensOfJames]

Thanks you!

[@stephenho6007]

the way you make a template is the best~!

[@LensOfJames]

Thanks Stephen!

[@jc10907Sealy]

Genius

[@annemoefaauo7055]

Agree totally!

[@bazphoon1]

@ll lll0 not on the side windows hes got the deflectors fitted.

[@Russellbeta]

Putting a sheet of plastic over the outside and then tracing the window edge onto it with a marker works too.

[@helenellsworth9556]

I would have used black carpet or felt but, you did well with these

[@stevejohanson4133]

Actually, silver only reflects heat if it's on the outside of the glass. Using silver reflective material behind the glass traps the heat within the barrier of the glass and material and will over heat your window and it may crack as a result. Do a window glass temperature test during a hot sunny day. Allow at least two hours of direct sunlight before testing. You will find that using a black window shade reduces your glass window temperature and will prevent your window from overheating and cracking as a result. But, on the other hand, if you live in an area where you don't experience continuous sunlight then you don't have to worry about overheating your window.

[@LG-cz6ls]

And having black window covers doesn't advertise that someone might be sleeping in the van.

[@owenparker6651]

Very well done, indeed. One note... using black will help if you are wanting to do the stealth thing as the windows will not look covered to a casual passerby at night like they might with any other color... Thanks for sharing your process.

[@Tonyconner74]

Good point, black is better I think so...

[@Choppini]

I did the printer paper sheet 'thing' yesterday, and I have to say, this was the easiest and fastest way to get ACCURATE templates the very first time. Almost no corrections necessary. First I was smiling when I saw you taping the sheets on the window...but who knows.... I thought, and tried. Thanks for the tip. There is no need for me to use double Reflectix, but I put black felt on one side - for SUV camping (Nissan X-trail). The last step will be sewing blk. bias tape (or twill tape, perhaps) around the edges, with bigger zig-zag stitch - with upholstery thread, even everything is glued. Will see if I have enough fabric to make bias tape, the store bought is so expensive and it's easy to make. These shades should last FOREVER!

[@Amigoof]

I want your patience! Well done!!

[@jakemorrison548]

Nice. I’m gonna do this. They sell custom fit ones for my van, but they cost too much.

[@SugarTits85]

Always clear, concise and clever as a fox. You the man, James.

[@LensOfJames]

Thanks! 🙏

[@anamariagarcia5508]

Attempt?..... you are a professional.......!! Congratulations !!...... and thank you for sharing. Regards from Australia

[@coralieofjumpwithnofear]

They look fantastic! That’s a seriously awesome job on those! And a great video with lots of detail for anyone else who wants to give it a try. Well done.

[@rt-ks2bh]

Fantastic vid without the crapp,,this vid was brillant and your work is excellent if make these on the outside for people i would purchase off you in an instant

[@danielgarvey9556]

One of the best videos for diy 👌 I have seen yet. Canadian rver Roadtrek Camper van this coming Wednesday it will 36 degrees and will tackling insulation issue's trunk area and camper van window's in the rear I use cut off blankets at the front part of van works great love the send you pictures. Also did major up grade prior to winter two battle Born heated batteries, 300 watts of solar, and victron dc to dc charger and lastly 1800 watt Xantrex interveter. Amazing we must chat.

[@kservia]

Those look great. I admire you craftsmanship.

[@dantecelle]

The best covers I've seen yet. Usually I see big gaps where sun gets through

[@ailsabarr9392]

These look great, and I will be stealing your template technique when I make some of these for my van! I do think sewing bias binding onto the edge would have been an easier option though 😊. Thanks for the video, lots of great ideas in here.

[@WOODOGS]

Absolutely awesome detail in such a short video, and the editing was spot on! The amount of space that you had to work on this project, and your organization was truly inspiring and motivating. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and most of all, your common sense in the preparation and completion. Best overall video on KZbin pertaining to this subject. Subscribed....

[@LensOfJames]

Thanks for the kind comment!

[@mattbarker1923]

Like other comments, this is a truly awesome and fantastic project. I was toying with buying some pads but doubted whether they would fit and actually insulate - but after watching your extremely thorough and informative video, I have no doubt I’ll have a crack myself. Excellent content and thank you for this inspirational vid !! Nice one.

[@DeziWofford]

That’s amazing work! I’m looking to make my own window covers for my Honda Element because without them it has been very difficult to have any peace during rest times and also the extreme heat is misery. Thank you for taking the time to video your process and wonderful idea. I’m so relieved to have a better idea of ways to make my DIY project go smoother than I ever imagined. I look forward to watching more of your videos. Maybe I too will have some videos on KZbin to help others like you are helping me and so many others. I’m sure of it! Thank you again! 😊

[@mrbagel69]

I CANT THANK YOU ENOUGH 🙏🏻 YOUR TECHNIQUE USING THE TAPED TOGETHER PAPER WORKS BEAUTIFULLY!! I THINK IM IN LOVE WITH YOU 🎉

[@LensOfJames]

Hahaha thanks, glad the video was useful! :)

[@jonnonyas2691]

Well done! its good seeing the younger generation doing things the right way! Take PRIDE in your work! Thank you!

[@hammerheadize]

I can call you creativity, "genius", you are the best at what you do, the best window cover that van life have to offer, thanks for sharing your experiences and knowledge

[@jc10907Sealy]

Most precise professional job of window covers I have ever seen!

[@rebelissima8915]

Thank you for your brilliant craftsmanship and attention to detail. I'm about to embark on my Prius stealth nomad life adventures and I've been brainstorming how to make these feel less like I'm a baked potato wrapped in foil in an oven, LOL. I love the idea of fabric of some sort instead of tape or painting it black or nothing at all - I've heard polar fleece works really well with insulation.

[@LensOfJames]

Good luck with yours, fabric's a great way to add a personal touch to car thermal window covers!

[@beekind466]

I love what you did!! I'll be doing this at camp this week. I figure the picnic table will give me ample space to cut and glue the pieces. I've rented a cabin but am staying the nights in my van as I feel more safe knowing I can make a fast getaway if trouble comes knocking on the cabin door. I do sew and I'm taking my machine to do the majority of the work here. Thanks for sharing!! Fantastic looking as well!!💖

[@vivian811230]

You have one of the best version of conversion and video quality, I can't believe you don't have many viewers yet. Anyway, keep on the good work! I'll come back often.

[@LensOfJames]

Thanks Vivian, glad you like the videos!

[@bonniemechefske3838]

Wow! Brilliant. Yes! You should be pleased with yourself. I also heard that tge reflectix shouldn't be directly against the glass and those suction cup things do perfect double duty for that. Wonderful tutorial. I see all kind of people say "and then I made these reflectix window covers" but nobody shows you how they did it. Thank you!

[@rainedyani8505]

Brilliant idea for how to make the templates! Wish I had thought of it - instead of spending hours struggling w/ poster board.

[@cedenullis5906]

Well done, an intelligent way to undertake a worthwhile project. I recon you have saved yourself some money on this project. Good luck with the build.

[@Cok76]

I have watch a lot of window cover videos, yours is the best I have seen, especially how you use sheets of paper to make the template. Thanks a lot. I m a new subscriber. You ask for subscribers at the perfect time. You gave me something then asked for support. Thanks again.

[@Tipperary757]

I like the carpet layer. Great job. You do need to make friends with someone who has a sewing machine. That edging was a lot of work.

[@NevadaLamb]

Thanks for the video!! I’ve been resistant to do something like this because I want to blend in as “normal” lol but as an avid cross country traveler I spend a lot of time in my car. No matter how big the parking lot is, somebody will always park near me. I put so much energy into finding just the right spot for peace and quiet only for somebody to park near me. They’re entire rows empty, cars parked together further down, and you gotta park directly behind the single car off to the side?!! It drives me absolute insane and one of these days I’m gonna be on the news beating someone’s car yelling “leave me alone!!!!” 🤣🤣🤣🤣 so yup, think I’ll have to pimp my car out! - sorry for the long response. It was a rant! Lol

[@shooster5884]

If it's just daytime privacy you want, you can use bubblewrap. Cut pieces to window size, keep a spray bottle of water in the car, spray water on the windows and that will hold the bubblwrap to the glass. Very effective.

[@anthonymarkiewicz8653]

Nicely done. However the foil look from the outside is less than stealthy. Maybe a combination of window tint and a black exterior facing finish. Thanks for sharing.

[@kirkb2286]

You did a great job….they look like they’re professionally made…great job

[@s.porter8646]

we got a teardrop with strange shaped windows, your design is awesomeness, thanx for posting

[@jakedabner8364]

Thanks! I have been trying to figure out how to get a neat edge on my window covers and your solution is excellent, I have used some leftover blue heaven underlay and foil backed paper with little slits in the underlay for the magnets , great videos , keep up the good work :)

[@qualitycrazy5516]

BRILLIANT..... couldn't figure out how to make a template. THANK YOU!!

[@forresthall3103]

Great idea using the suction cups! I cover up all the metal with my window panels/frames, so it's great to know there's an alternative to magnets. I'm ordering a project through my upholstery shop to complete this design. Thank you!!!

[@1wldnczyguy]

Well done! And, thoroughly demonstrated and explained! (Definitely a cut above most other KZbin “DIY” videos!) My biggest concern was the window attachment of these covers. But, you apparently hit that nail on the head, too! Thanks, and happy trails!

[@howardtennant5766]

Brilliant job look and fit better than some of the professionally made covers 10 out of 10

[@showcivicred]

This is awesome! I was planning on making my own for a Promaster 2500 van and had in the back of my mind to use suction cups, and was relieved to see that you used them! Great job!

[@alexanderkillips3121]

Yeah thats awesome! Im about to copy this to match my subaru outback windows as I love taking it out camping- i just hate tents- Especially when I have a bed in my car already 😂

[@ChristopherPayneMUA]

I'm getting ready to make a set of these and have been watching a lot of videos. For some reason it never occurred to me to double up the insulation, I bet it makes a real difference.

[@WonkaWillE]

I made a set for my jeep compass for about 10 dollars. Dollar tree sells cheap sun shades for a dollar. Made a template out of cardboard and spray glued to the sun shade. Bigger project than i thought but cheap and effective.

[@MichaelBrown-fb8kk]

Definitely saving this for later, I have a Peterbilt that I want to do this to, I love the overkill.

[@63viet]

Thank you. This is the best DIY window covers. I was going to spend over $150 for a custom made covers.

[@PaulySure72]

Should have added a part of you inside the van with all windows covered to see how dark it is!! Good job! I have a full size Ford Van im gonna do this with. Thanks!

[@LensOfJames]

Good point! I've found they're only as good as how you cut them ;)

[@1ACL]

How is the Trimfix high temperature contact adhesive holding up, especially on the edges? -- really clean job. Thank you.

[@michaelvargo3694]

I wonder the same thing.

[@mikebeechey9802]

Awesome James. Will be having a go at this for my caddy.

[@ronplaisted3008]

Great tutorial. I just purchased an NV200 today. I have lots of ideas but very interested in what you have done with this vehicle.

[@morrisyarnell6083]

After finding a huge roll of the bubble insulation on the side of the road I was thinking about making some window covers as well and your video was very timely. You did a superb job and I hope I can do as well. I do have a sewing machine and I am sure it will help.

[@LensOfJames]

That's a great find, hope you're windows covers go well!

[@ChrisAndEmilie]

Amazingly well made! Love these! We made covers for our vehicle too but these ones are definitely well done!

[@LetRawFoodsLoveyou]

Great job! Just gave me some good ideas on how to make the template! He did a really nice job with the video. I like how you talked over it afterwards. I also like how you sped up everything.

[@LensOfJames]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@KJ7JHN]

Glues being plyable in higher temperatures, you should stitch the binding tape. Very well done. 10/10.

[@LensOfJames]

Thanks! Yes it can definitely be a problem though I used high temperature contact adhesive which solves the problem and is cheaper than me buying a sewing machine 😂

[@CaranPhill]

FANTASTIC! I am doing a van conversion now of my Renault Trafic and will be implementing many of your ideas. Thank you for your help. Greatly appreciated!

[@michaelnapoleone3594]

Appreciate your attention to detail, also doing it with high speed filming!, This is the best video by far on doing window covers, t.y,v,m.

[@monamendiola1]

Best one on KZbin I have seen yet. I'm going to make a small flap at the top for a elect cord

[@trishmcmahon3295]

What patience and great standard well done

[@vamboroolz1612]

Very professional job. As someone that works with his hands every day, ( I am a carpenter), I am mightily impressed by your work, ( no pedantic negative comment to add 😁).

[@alexanderweaver4838]

Awesome work. Your finished products look very professional. I have to do something similar for my van windows. The conversion work is so much fun and the accomplishments are very rewarding.

[@mrslizmorales]

Wow!! Perfection! The best window covers I've seen so far. Gonna try to copy your work here greetings from Italy!!

[@shazzam532]

Brilliant work. . I may give this a go. I have a Vivaro SWB and really tight for space so I may not double up the foil as you did, just to make them easy to roll up.. Thank you..

[@MELODYMUNRO]

From my experience as a fishkeeper, those suction cups will eventually fail, they always do once they get old and become hard. Think velcro may be a better choice or magnets.

[@corysvanlife]

This was awesome!! I am not wanting to spend a lot on window covers so I will be doing them myself!! Thanks for sharing!!

[@mariethompson7229]

Might I please share with you another idea 💡to use as a template? No disrespect intended. That looked like perfectly good paper. Try news paper, you could also cut it to male it more manageable. Just a thought.

[@LensOfJames]

Great idea, though I only had A4 paper to hand when I was doing it 🙂

[@katogden9605]

That is so cool . I HAVE a N V 200 too and I been wanting to do this 😊

[@hadesik]

Great job. Just as an idea - you could glue/saw in short straps to side windows covers for easier removal, since your shades fit so tightly.

[@LydiaKrow]

Very nice! I love your template technique; I have been frustrated by my attempts so far, but I think this will help. :D

[@dinahb8304]

Love it! Excellent job. I sew, so I’m usually opposed to glue but these look so great and professional!

[@LensOfJames]

Thanks, glad you like them. If I had a sewing machine I would have attempted it but glue was the only option for me!

[@lestiepops69]

Would sewing not be a better option with the glue perhaps melting in the sun eventually? I absolutely love this video by the way. Not a narky snobby question; a genuine question ❤️

[@笑笑笑-p3b]

This product going softer after use many times and i will loose its shape.. and no more space to keep all parts same condition in car.. Thanks for sharing!..

[@thewanderer8]

Excellent job. Well done. I'll be doing this for my new Peugeot Rifter next week!

[@LensOfJames]

Thanks!

[@SoggyBiscuits1000]

amazing idea, might do this for my patio doors this winter

[@freetob1]

Very well and PROFESSIONAL JOB!!! I wish I had the patience and the talent with this project. I am having a hard time just getting them to fit perfect like you did here. Not to mention, it is 102 degrees in the morning through the day in Nashville, Tn USA. I would work later afternoon and evening but I have a pervert that comes home at 2 or 3 pm and stays outside until dark, 20 feet from me, drinking and doing that m e t h. I know, too much information but I am in HELL with this pervert. I will get these done though at some point and thank you for video.

[@REDGRIFFIN100]

Good job, I made some like these but without the carpet and the difference it makes is amazing, also if you get a good fit them be no condensation at all. It's really worth doing. One thing I noticed, after four years of use the front windscreen one has shrunk and has a small gap so now gets partly condensated, so I'll have to remake it at some point.

[@aimeehardin1299]

Four yrs! Wow. Long use!

[@brucevannguyen]

Man you look so smart making that.

[@Uzuriuk]

Respect to you. Amazing, and the attention to detail. They look fantastic.

[@quinnylad1]

I guess if you swap the singles (windscreen/boot) around on themselves and point the silver side in, and also swap from side to side the paired ones (side windows/little windows) so silver sides pointing in, you might keep a little more heat inside (?) whilst also reducing your reflectiveness to passing car lights / traffic therefore just helping keep your profile as an obvious point of interest for 'neer do wells' or federales to a minimum :) Anyway, thanks a million hopefully I can make some of these I will be pretty damn happy!

[@karenkeller5866]

Thank you so much! This is the best tutorial that I’ve seen. Where did you find the suction cup?

[@resistireland694]

Great work all round Brother ♥ Brilliant idea for the window covers. We just bought a 05 LDV Hgh Roof, Long wheel base for doing a conversion and after much searching on here I found your way of doing things to be exceptionly clever and welk thought through. So I reckon ill be adopting some or many of your ideas. Respect.

[@Julian-do7bv]

Wow these look fantastic im impressed how well they turned out

[@Z1000SX_Matt]

Great video, they look really good 👍 I've just done it the lazy way and bought some front window covers, I did make my own for the rear windows though, very similar to yours

[@1mostwanted253]

Thumbed up for learning a new technique new today.

[@PinkyJapan]

I have a sewing machine so I’m looking to sew my curtains but this video was still super helpful! You essentially drafted a pattern from scratch and did an amazing job. You’re super crafty and I’m very curious what you could do with a sewing machine! Great job.

[@LensOfJames]

Thanks for the kind words, glad the video was helpful!

[@michealgillman7418]

Stunning job...I got quoted £375 for a made set for my relay. Yours look great 👍

[@FrankOlsonTwins]

Nice Result! Looking forward to making a set for my SUV sleeper! The suction cups are a nice touch. New sub!

[@pasiro9526]

I think I found the best one on KZbin, dunno if I could it....

[@jakemorrison548]

I just made mine today. It came out great...and I’m not an arts and crafts kind of guy. The paper template is a great idea.

[@davidwaterhouse2552]

Brilliant job! A lot of work, but the results are excellent, well done!

[@billlee270]

They sure look like they are going to last a very long time. Great job.👍

[@nmartin5551]

Nice video! Not too much excess talk, but great explanation and useful video!!!

[@malcolmwhyte5856]

Excellent. I will be following your lead on this. Thank you

[@ChumiStu]

This is brilliant, makes me want to buy more carpet and insulation. Really nice touch with the edging.

[@yorkshirelass2553]

They look very professional! Amazing job!

[@LensOfJames]

Thanks!

[@hikerdoc6771]

Excellent job. Better than commercially available ones IMHO. You should feel justifiably proud of the result. Like you, with my own van build (Ford Transit Custom), I made an inside cover for the sliding door side window I fitted and it worked out better than anything I could find commercially available. I used neodymium magnets to keep it in place. ATB. Neil

[@onenesscityhunter]

I love it! One improvement I would make would be to magnets instead of suction cups. Very nice DIY video, thanks!

[@aimeehardin1299]

How would you "install" the magnets though? Trying to picture this but can't see it in my mind.