MRH Feb 2011 issue has what you need

Please check out this issue with an article by yours truely on using a computer to print window treatments:

http://model-railroad-hobbyist.com/magazine/mrh-2011-02-Feb

Picture compliments of Model Railroad Hobbyist Magazine - taken by Rick Wade

Was going to message you!

My pleasure, Rich! Feel free

Cardboard beer cases

I used a couple of Natty Boh cases to block the windows from prying eyes of thieves and riff-raff.

I couldn't find a good picture of a period National Bohemian case so I used a good photograph of a vintage coaster and replaced the faded white with cardboard color. Scaled down to about beer case size and printed out on regular paper with a color laser printer (hey I'm at work all the time). The window glass is from a microscope slide cover. It's all I use for window now. On the other side of the garage I used a piece of brown paper towel to simulate cardboard behind the glass.

Matt

Window treatments, another suggestion.

rtb, you don't mention scale, era, or industrial/commercial or residential application? This information would indicate your options and limitations. For example, window treatments used on a residential structure (embellished) would probably not be appropriate for an industrial structure (utilitarian).

Most scale-modelers these days use a variety of materials to simulate actual 3-dimensional window treatments (curtains, venetian blinds, or shades). This adds visual texture and interest (hence, character) to an otherwise ordinary, mediocre  structure.

Below are images from a forthcoming blog post concerning 1/87 uncompleted "kit-mod" I have been intermittently tinkering with.

For the cafe curtains below, in print setup, I reduced an image of red gingham to approximately 28% for 1/87 scale. Printed it on my color laser for sharpness and definition. Determined the height of the curtain(s) reveal. Then tightly folded (ala oragami) the printed strip into a quasi-accordian. While the paper was still tightly folded, I drilled a small hole at one end to allow a small-gauge wire (I like to use the wire from twist-ties found in the produce department at the grocery store) to pass through simulating a curtain rod.

While this application is probably not appropriate to whatever window treatment(s) you are inquiring about, the general technique has it's merits. Instead of 2-dimensionally indicating curtain folds or shadows, why not actually fold them into your source material?

Good luck with your efforts and, as always,

Best wishes, ...

Delbert

Deibert, I really like your

Deibert,

I really like your idea and it would look great for my "Midge's Corner Cafe" that currently doesn't have a detailed interior but could use some curtains.  Thanks for sharing!