How do I use the linux-headers with the linux-source?

["Marco" <marco4ever@libero.it>]

Hi everybody!
I have installed Debian Etch on my laptop.
I have installed the "linux-source-2.6.15" package,
and I have exctracted it with the command:
# tar -jxf /usr/src/linux-source-2.6.15.tar.bz2

I have also installed the "linux-headers-2.6.15-686"
and the "linux-headers-2.6.15-1" packages (that should
be the linux-headers for my system (Intel Pentium M)).

What must I do to compile my kernel with the linux-headers?
I also have to apply some patches to my kernel.
Do I have to apply these patches to linux-source or
linux-headers?

Thanks a lot,
Bye

Marco