curtains for keeping cool?

[kangamitroo]

i am lucky to have a lot of south facing windows that gather light.  however, in the humid days my house gets very hot.

i have only very thin, sheer white curtains (except dd's room, with opaque cotton ones).  seem to recall hearing about heavier curtains that can help regulate temps--but maybe that is to keep out winter drafts?

i do not have much money to spend but would like to do something. we have an old stone house, and fans do not do much.  also, we cannot use many fans due to old electric system.

thanks for any suggestions.

[cocoanib]

Some nice thick curtains will keep the sun out and keep it cool. It will also keep it dark in the house though.

If you can't spend money getting some thicker curtains, maybe you can sew a sheet or light blanket to the back of the curtains that you already have.