Dressing Up An Ugly Window Unit
8 Materials
Ah, the window unit. Such a money saver, and yet such an eyesore…
In making over our master bedroom, I knew something had to be done! After a bit of thinking, I learned that dressing up a window unit is easier than I thought! All it takes is an hour, good measurements and a few simple materials.
You will need:
First, take accurate measurements of all the surrounding spaces between the unit and the window frame.
Once you’ve made all your cuts, your results should look something like this:
Fortify any creases in the cardboard with a couple layers of duct tape.
Next, place the fabric face-down on your work surface (in my case, the floor). Center the cardboard frame over the fabric, then carefully cut out a square of fabric from the center of the frame.Do NOT cut right up along the interior edges of the cardboard frame. Instead, leave about a 2″ border so that you can fold this flap of fabric up over the cardboard.
Using large zig-zag stitches, sew the flaps on each side of the frame tightly together.
Once you’ve finished sewing, flip your fabric frame over and gently pop it over the face of the window unit. It should fit nice and snug. Thankfully, cardboard allows for wiggle room.
Not only does this frame look better, it blocks the heat that seeps through the thin plastic accordion. Likewise, I’m sure it will block the chill in the winter.
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
Comments
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2 of 213 comments
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I saw your post quite some time ago. I really liked your idea and was planning on making some covers. I forgot all about it. Seeing your post again is a good reminder. Thanks Again for sharing.
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My ac units are through the wall because the windows open vertically and I hate them. The windows and the ac units. If I could I would definitely replace the windows. But in the meanwhile, and because my drapes are patterned, I will try your idea using a solid sage green fabric that will match my walls. Thank you so much.
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
My problem is that on one side of an 2.400 wide window the a/c sticks out inside the lounge and the curtains hang over it leaving a bulge. Would a deeper pelmet allow the curtains to hang straight in front of the a/c?
Did you use another piece of cardboard to cover your stitching?
We have window u nits upstairs and I'm going to do this with the R5 insulation board. The extra insulation as backing will help hide the stitching and help with air leaks.
Could you glue the flaps down instead of sewing them