Pleated window shades are a key feature in many RVs, offering a combination of functionality and style. However, like most things in an RV, they’re not immune to wear and tear. Over time, the cords that allow these shades to move smoothly can fray or break, leaving you with shades that won’t operate properly. The good news? You don’t need to replace the entire shade! Restringing your pleated RV window shades is a cost-effective and surprisingly simple DIY project.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the entire process of restringing your RV shades step by step. With just a few tools and a little patience, you’ll have your shades working like new in no time. Let’s dive in!

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Tools and Materials Needed:

• Replacement cord (nylon is recommended for durability)
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Needle or restringing tool
• Lighter (to seal cord ends)
• Screwdriver (to remove and reattach the shades)
• Masking tape or clips (to hold the pleats in place)
• A restringing kit. You can purchase these kits on Amazon, for added convenience here is a reliable choice: the NOVINO RV Blinds Repair Kit, which includes everything you need for this project.

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Step 1: Remove the Shades

1. Detach the shades from the window frame. Use a screwdriver to carefully unscrew the mounting brackets holding the shade. Be sure to keep the screws and brackets in a safe place for reinstallation later.
2. Lay the shade on a flat, clean surface. This will give you enough room to work comfortably and ensure the pleats stay intact.

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Step 2: Inspect and Measure

1. Examine the shade’s condition. Inspect the cords closely to identify where they are worn, frayed, or broken. If the pleats or cord guides are damaged, you may need to replace additional parts.
2. Measure the replacement cord. Use the old cord as a reference. If it’s unavailable, measure the height and width of the shade. Multiply the height by 4 and add the width to determine the length of each cord you’ll need. Cut the cords to size, ensuring a little extra length for adjustments.

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Step 3: Remove the Old Cord

1. Locate the ends of the old cord, which are usually knotted or attached to a tensioner. Carefully untie or cut the knots to free the cord.
2. Gently pull the cord out of the cord guides and pleats. Take note of the threading pattern as you go; you can also take pictures to use as a reference when restringing.

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Step 4: Thread the New Cord

1. Prepare your workspace. Secure the pleats in place using masking tape or clips to prevent them from shifting during the threading process.
2. Start with one pleat at a time. Insert the new cord through the first pleat using a needle or restringing tool. Be careful not to damage the fabric or the pleats as you work.
3. Continue threading the cord through each pleat, following the original pattern. This process can be tedious, but taking your time ensures the cords will function properly.
4. Once the cords are threaded through all the pleats, guide them into the cord guides and through the tensioners on either side of the shade.

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Step 5: Secure and Test the Shade

1. Tie knots to secure the cords. Once the cords are threaded and in place, tie a knot at each end to secure them. Make sure the knots are tight enough to hold but not so tight that they can’t be adjusted if needed.
2. Reattach the shade to the window frame using the screws and brackets you set aside earlier. Make sure the shade is securely mounted.
3. Test the movement of the shade. Raise and lower it several times to ensure the cords are functioning smoothly and evenly. If one side is uneven, adjust the cords by loosening the knots and redistributing the tension.

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Step 6: Final Adjustments

1. Trim excess cord. Once you’re satisfied with the tension and movement, use scissors to trim any excess cord. Leave a small amount of extra cord near the knots to allow for future adjustments if necessary.
2. Seal the cord ends. Use a lighter to carefully melt the ends of the cords. This prevents fraying and extends the life of the cord.
3. Perform a final check to ensure the shade operates smoothly and looks balanced when fully extended or retracted.

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Tips for Success:

• Take detailed photos of the shade’s original setup before removing the cords. These will be invaluable as a reference. (THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT – All windows are not the same as this one)
• Work on a large, clean surface to keep the pleats and cords organized throughout the process.
• If you’re restringing multiple shades, work on one at a time to avoid mixing up parts or threading patterns.

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Final Thoughts

Restringing RV window shades may sound like a challenging task, but with the right tools, guidance, and a little patience, it’s a rewarding project that saves money and extends the life of your shades. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about fixing something with your own hands and learning new skills along the way.

If you’ve enjoyed this guide and found it helpful, we encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments below! Do you have any additional tips or tricks for restringing RV window shades? We’d love to hear about your experience.

For more RV tips and advice, check out our other posts. Happy travels!

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