How Can I Create Custom Blinds?

Whether they’re too wide or too long, bamboo blinds are easy to customise to fit your windows. We’ll show you create custom blinds for your home.

Full article with thanks to: bhg.com/decorating/window-treatments/budget/custom-bamboo-blinds

Sometimes you have to take matters into your own hands to get the perfect set of blinds. Bamboo blinds come in many shades for an affordable price at most home stores. However, if you have custom windows in your home, the standard window treatment might not be the right size off the shelf. Below, we’ll show you how to resize a store-bought set of bamboo blinds, including how to fix bamboo blinds that are too wide or too long. You likely already have all the tools you need!

How to Cut Your Custom Blinds

Learn how to cut bamboo blinds yourself to fit the windows in your home. Below are the supplies you’ll need to make your custom blinds.

Supplies Needed for Your Custom Blinds

Bamboo blinds
Painters tape
Measuring tape
Permanent marker or fabric marker
Miter saw
Straight edge
E6000 permanent adhesive glue
Cutting mat
Utility knife

How to Cut Bamboo Blinds That Are Too Wide To Create Custom Blinds

This quick DIY project will fix bamboo blinds that are too wide for your window.

Step 1: Roll Blinds

Roll blinds tightly around the headrail, making sure edges are even. Tape the roller blinds in the centre to hold them in place and stabilise.

Step 2: Measure and Mark Intended Size

Measure and mark where you want to cut the blinds. You can reduce both sides or one. To reduce both sides, measure out from centre point equal distance on each side. Reduce your measurement by an extra 1/4 inch; this will allow the blinds to move within your window frame.

Editor’s Tip: Once you’ve marked your measurements, you can choose to wrap additional painters tape around the bamboo blinds a few inches from each end. This will help with stability as you’re cutting.

Step 3: Cut Blinds

Cut the blinds at your measurements using a mitre saw. Cut the headrail as well. Depending on your bamboo blinds and how much material you’re removing, you might have to cut a slot on the headrail and/or move the mounting bracket.

How to Cut Your Customer Blinds and to avoid Bamboo Shades That Are Too Long

Prevent your bamboo blinds from piling up on the windowsill with these simple steps.

Step 1: Mark Length for your custom blinds

Install blinds to the window according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Mark on the back of the shades your desired length. At full length, the blinds should sit just above the windowsill but shouldn’t touch the surface. Use a measuring tape and straight edge to draw a straight line across the back of the blinds at your mark.

Step 2: Cut and Tie Strings

Identify the closest ring above your mark and cut the string. Tie the string to the ring, double knotting and trimming excess. Repeat, cutting and tie all rings at the same level.

Step 3: Secure Strings for Strong Custom Blinds

On the front of the blinds, find the area where you’re going to cut. Glue the strings above and below that point to prevent them from unravelling. Be sure to glue at every string across the entire length.

Step 4: Cut Final Length

Once the glue is dry, use a utility knife on a cutting mat to cut off the extra length. Fold about an inch of the bottom-up and glue it to the back of the blinds to create a faux hem. Trim or tie pull cords to shorten.

There you have it. You’ve created your custom blinds!