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Make a custom-fitted sunshade

Make a custom-fitted sunshade
Tired of wrestling with your sunshade? Modify one to fit your car. As a bonus, the better it fits, the more heat it keeps out of your car!
 
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Step 1Initial fit check

Initial fit check
Lay your sunshade out flat across the outside of your windshield to get an idea of what you have to work with.

If you're picking up a new sunshade for this project, get one that covers as much of your windshield as possible when you lay it on the outside. Sunshade manufacturers want to keep their costs down, so they produce the minimum number of models. I have only seen two sizes in the auto parts stores: regular and large. If you read the application notes on the back, you'll see a slew of makes and models allegedly covered. Ignore these suggestions and get the big one: you're going to make it fit, and the extra size will come in handy.

What you see below is my trusty 1987 Toyota Camry (affectionately called "The Death Trap" by coworkers) with a large sunshade. You can see that there's plenty to work with. The sunshade has shiny mylar on top of some sort of bubble-wrap-like material. If you want to keep costs down, and you're willing to do a bit of folding at the end, you can make your own sunshade from a big piece of cardboard.

Windshields tend to curve in at least two dimensions, which makes them tough to size using simple measurements. We need a template to guide our modifications.
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7 comments
Dec 8, 2011. 7:57 PMprofpat says:
nice one,

you may also use soft pvc roof insulation sheets, the one with aluminum foil at one side, these comes in many thickness, just buy a 1.5 meter length from your nearest hardware and cut to your size.
Dec 5, 2011. 8:40 AMSooner Aviator says:
For a final touch you could sew a piece of fabric the finish the edge like the original, should be pretty easy with a sewing machine.
Dec 4, 2011. 1:39 AMnotalis1970 says:
This would be a nice gift for my 19 year old daughter, the girl who has it all. But if I want to decorate it what would be the best medium? I'm afraid paint markers would chip after folding. i think she'd like some metal band logo or maybe a big "bazinga!" from Big Bang Theory on it...what do you suggest?
Dec 5, 2011. 8:39 AMSooner Aviator says:
I would suggest markers such as the various colored Sharpie Markers. They are permanent, wont flake off, come in many colors, and would look great on the mylar.
Dec 4, 2011. 4:21 AMDonaldChapman says:
Do you have to add anything to the cut edging like a hem so it doesn't fray or get pieces of the sunshade get all over the car?

Thanks in advance for your response. I will be making one of these very soon.
Jul 14, 2008. 1:04 AMahremsee says:
All someone needs to do is add eyes to this and you have your own Disney Pixar Car! Kachow!
Jul 13, 2008. 8:39 PMsdallesasse says:
Too, cool. I'll have to try it.

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Author:m32825
My name is Carl Morris. I'm an engineer. I like to build things and solve problems. I like learning how other people build things and solve problems. I like to laugh, and look for the humor in a...
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