DIY Skylight Blockers

Select paper in a color or pattern that complements the design of the room with the skylight. Opt for a darker and heavier weight paper if you prefer a more opaque shade and lighter paper for a more translucent effect. Use the ladder, as necessary, to reach the skylight and measure its dimensions.

Use the measuring tape, pencil and scissors to cut a piece of the chosen paper to size. Make the paper equal to the window in width and, if you want a pleated shade, about 1 1/2 times the length.

Use the measuring tape to mark out 1/2-inch intervals along the entire length of each new shade. Using the ruler to create a smooth and even line, crease the paper back and forth, accordion-style, along each pleat. Keep your hands dry and your work area clear during this stage to avoid excess wrinkles or puckering in the material.

Working with a partner, have one person ascend the ladder and hold the shade in place while the assistant looks on from the floor. Check that the shade's dimensions are to your liking and assess whether you need to suspend the shade at each side, or only at the four corners. Factor in whether you like a slightly draped appearance or prefer a fairly taut shade.

Mark four points in the inside of the window frame, all evenly spaced just 2 inches up the side from each corner. Drill a hole at each mark, using a bit that's sized to match the threaded ends of your plant hooks. Screw the plant hooks into place. Add two more hooks, if you prefer, midway along the longer sides of the window.

Hold the paper shade up to the window and mark it to align with the plant hooks. Take down the shade and use the measuring tape to confirm the marks are even. Hole punch the shade at each mark.

Set the shade in place, slipping the plant hooks into each hole. If you plan to take down the shades during some part of the year, paint the plant hooks to match the ceiling paint.