I bought two of these panels for the French doors off my dining room/kitchen area. The colors and print are just beautiful, and match the little pops of blue and red I have going in those rooms. The big surprise was the softness of the fabric, and how it drapes! Fold marks came out immediately upon hanging, but I just kept wanting to touch the curtains. If it's possible, they feel even better than they look, and yes, they absolutely block sunlight, help keep the rooms cool, and even help with blocking outside noise. They are substantial without being heavy or stiff in any way. Absolutely love these, and trying to figure out if there's a way to fit another set into a bedroom or some other room in my house. The pattern/print are so cheerful! Everything about them makes me feel good.