ShadeMod

HowTo install/retrofit a Cord Locking mechanism into a Window Shade.

Context: we bought some Smith And Noble FlatRomanShades a couple years ago. Unfortunately, at the width we have, the Cord Locking mechanism isn't available (hmm, now I see this "Loop Control" option that I don't think was there at the time). So they just gave us these little cleats to wrap the cord around at a certain position. But since we have metal window frames that wasn't an option. So we've been looping the cord over an old curtain tie-back hook mounted below the window frames; it works OK but doesn't give much granularity of control. So she made me do a retrofit myself, thus violating the shade EULA, etc. So I thought I'd help any other sucker who gets involved in this. Big disclaimer: while this worked for me, it's possible the mechanism will rip out of the shade after a few months, etc.

Parts to purchase from someone:

• locking mechanism

• screw-eye for rightmost cord

(will write instructions later) - key point: with a big simple non-locking roller, the strings can go through in any old bundle. But for a locking mechanism, with separate little channels, any crossing of the strings will turn be blocked by the mechanism and you won't be able to pull any further. Solution: start from the far side of the curtain where the first single string is joined by the 2nd string, and hold them in position with a hairpin - then do the same thing when the 3rd string joins the bundle, etc.

FlickR photos http://www.flickr.com/photos/webseitz/search/text:ShadeMod/