But making window coverings is not exactly rocket science and the equipment and techniques are commonly known, making window coverings one of the most competitive home décor categories.

Read our Window Blinds Buying Guide 2008 for an inside look at the window fashions industry and how to save money when designing, specifying and ordering your own unique designer window treatments.

Evolution of the Window Blinds Brands

During recessionary periods over the last several decades, the window coverings industry has repetitively experienced heavy consolidation, leaving customers with fewer choices and, at the same time, leaving the door open for private label and discount window blinds companies to emerge.

Today, a handful of major window blinds manufacturers control most of the major brands in the industry. But, during the 1980s and 1990s a number of nationwide discount window blinds companies opened in the U.S.

Instead of being forced to pay high prices buying window blinds from designers or make their own coverings, people could go to these discounters and enjoy lower prices and increased selection. The development of these additional distribution channels has enabled new growth in a very established

Window Blinds Buying Guide 2008 gives you insight into the window coverings industry.

Window Blinds Industry Evolves Yet Again

With the advent of the Internet, a whole new way of purchasing window blinds has opened up, once again offering consumers a wider range of choices, styles and price points from which to select! This disruptive technology has caused turmoil, greater emphasis on specialization and hidden opportunities for upstarts within the window coverings space.

Now the do-it-yourself homeowner or decorator can measure windows and go online to purchase either name brand or private label window blinds and shades at much lower prices than ever before!

The other evolution that has helped make window coverings more affordable has been distribution through behemoth retailers such as JC Penney, Walmart, Target and others selling ready-made window blinds and shades at discounted prices. And while the selection is more limited in the largest chain stores, you can find bargain prices if can find what you’re looking for!

How Has Industry Change Helped Consumers?

All of this change and disruption has benefited customers with greater selection, lower prices and options from which to choose. But navigating the maze of window blinds and coverings choices, how do you decide what’s best?

When shopping for window blinds, you may not care that much about the brand you’re buying. But, unless you like replacing window blinds every couple years, it’s smart to pay attention to what brand you buy. As with anything, the adage “you get what you pay for” is certainly true when it comes to window blinds.

Major window blinds brands will have more options when it comes to materials, finishes, mounting hardware and operating controls. You can often buy a brand from discounters offering private label products.

Private Label Discount Window Blinds

These days, whether you buy blinds from a local store or designer or shop on the Internet, most likely the components used to make your blinds will come from one of the large manufacturers. Mass-customization is the name of the game, using state of the art supply chain management and custom component assembly techniques.

Window blind slats and other components are fitted and assembled to produce private label window coverings made either as ready-made blinds to fit generic window sizes or custom-measured and assembled to fit any non-standard shape and size windows.

Ask your blinds retailer, discount house or installer what brand components they use to make custom window blinds and shades. Whichever brand they use, your supplier should be authorized and trained to fit, install and service the products. Be leery if they say they don’t know or claim to make all the components in house.

Also ask about the warranty details of the store or supplier versus the manufacturer; if there’s a problem will you be able to return the blinds to the retailer or do you have to then deal with another, outsourced party?

What are the Big Names in Window Blinds?

There are really only a few major window fashions manufacturers; consolidation in the industry means that the biggest now own and operate under multiple brands, with a variety of quality levels, features and price points offered within each line.

We have researched customer feedback, product reviews and other data to bring you our assessment of the window coverings industry. We have reviewed each of the major brands for you in detail. Click on any brand name below to view a full review on the brand.

Hunter Douglas

One of the most recognizable industry brand names, Hunter Douglas offers a number of product lines, each catering to a separate customer base and leveraging different distribution avenues. Consumers buy Hunter Douglas for the reputation for quality and choice …

Read Hunter Douglas Window Coverings Review

Levolor

Established since 1914, Levolor is recognized worldwide as an industry leader and innovator in the window blinds industry and popularized the aluminum “mini-blind” back in the 70s …

Read Levolor Window Coverings Review

Bali

Customer who know Bali Blinds love the brand; they are like the Apple of the window fashions industry, with a loyal customer following and a knack for introducing the right products at the right time…

Read Bali Window Coverings Review

Comfortex

The focus of Comfortex began in 1985, when New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) provided support to the company in developing innovative, energy efficient line of window coverings. The effort was a success, leading Comfortex to become an Energy Star partner…

Read Comfortex Window Coverings Review

Graber

A pioneer in full service window blinds, Graber offers window blinds and shades, along with drapery hardware, leveraging a network of dealers and decorators to do all the design consulting, measuring, fitting and installing for you…

Read Graber Window Coverings Review

Kirsch

Known as a high quality brand, Kirsch sells custom window treatments and drapery hardware through specialty retail stores, design professionals and department stores…

Read Kirsch Window Coverings Review

Look no further than cellular shades. Cellular, or Honeycomb, shades can offer you the best of both worlds with top-down/bottom-up lift control and remote control motorized operation!

With the honeycomb shades that open either from the top down or the bottom up, you will have the ultimate flexibility and ease of use you’re looking for at a reasonable price. Install shades yourself to save even more money.

Benefits of Cellular Shades

• Single Cell shades block up to 50% of the heat from escaping your home in winter or getting into your home in summer
• Block up to 99% of sun’s harmful UV rays
• Work great as an under-treatment for designer window treatments such as curtains, draperies, valances or other top treatments

Ease of Operation with Top-Down/Bottom-Up Configuration

Cellular shades with a top-down/bottom-up configuration offer flexible control over light and privacy.

You can purchase select honeycomb shades, pleated shades, Roman shades and woven wood shades with the top-down/bottom up feature and the number of colors, fabrics, styles and light filtering characteristics available is nearly endless!

Cellular Shades Offer Superior Light Control

Whether you are looking for an opaque, light blocking material or something that is translucent enough to give a soft ambient light level in your home, you have plenty of choices when selecting your cellular shades.

Save Money Buying Your Top-Down/Bottom-Up Shades Online

If you want great selection, a money-back guarantee and deep discounts, visit blinds.com today and save 10% on Blinds.com Top Down/Bottom Up Cellular Shades!

Its one of those oft-overlooked details that has to be managed, but it doesn’t have to break your budget! If you know a few secrets and have a plan you can decorate your windows nicely without spending a fortune.

Follow these tips and strategies to save money on your window coverings!

The best tips aren’t so easy to find online so we’ve done a little research for you and come up with some great money-saving tips and window blinds facts to help the smart shopper.

Whether your budget is $100 or $10,000 there are a few basic things you can do to get the most value from your investment in window treatments:

• First, consider doing the installation yourself; it’s a great starter project for a new homeowner looking to gain new skills and confidence with home remodeling and decorating!
• Have a plan; keep detailed notes, sketches, photos, samples, window opening measurements, color schemes, room design and patterns together as you are researching, planning comparing.
• Smart designers know not to leave window treatments as an afterthought; your window coverings should be integral to every element of designing your overall home décor and individual interior spaces.
• If you don’t want to spend the time or aren’t certain of your DIY skills, you may still be able to get a deal on the installation cost by installing or replacing coverings on all your windows at one time; this also helps you shop for the best deals.
• Take your time designing and selecting the window treatments you want and know your budget before you make purchases; by knowing what you want you can more easily compare features, plan for installation and getting the best bargain possible.
• Set a budget and try to get the most value possible with that budget; you might skimp in some less prominent rooms in order to splurge a little in the rooms that really show off your home and décor.
• Always compare several vendors before you decide; be sure you understand their reputation, delivery cost, return policy, service commitment and guarantee before making a final decision.
• Always try to negotiate for a little more service, options and package pricing! You’ll be surprised sometimes what vendors will do to win your business so it never hurts to ask. 

Learn how to save money on window blinds and shades with these easy to follow tips.

Save with Window Shades Instead of Blinds

One of the primary determining factors in your budget will be the type of window treatments you select. Cellular shades have become increasingly popular for their affordability, ease of installation and flexible controls and options.

Another reason to select cellular window shades is their insulating qualities, which can help cut heating and cooling costs.
Save with Faux Wood Instead of Real Wood Blinds

If you do want the classic look of wide-slatted Venetian window blinds, you can save money if you go with faux instead of real wood blinds. If you plan your room design so that white or another color finish will work, then there is very little reason to spend the extra money on real wood.

Faux wood blinds with a painted finish are durable, don’t tend to warp and easy to clean, making them a great money-saving alternative. Unless you look closely, today’s wood composite and vinyl products look a lot like the real thing and you can save as much as 50 percent on faux wood blinds!

Faux wood blinds are more durable than wood and don’t warp, crack or split; a great benefit if you live in the humid climate of the East coast or the dry climate of the Southwest. Faux wood blinds are also easier to clean since you can dip them in water with a mild cleaning solution; not something to try with real wood window blinds!

Hunter Douglas, Levolor, Bali and the other major window fashion manufacturers all have faux wood products in their lineups, but sometimes you can save by buying what are called their “signature” lines which don’t carry the same labels and are marketed under less recognized brand names.

Know in advance the color, size and type of window shade or blind you want before buying.

The Mini Blind Alternative

You might also consider window blinds with the narrower one or two-inch wide slats, especially in a utility room such as the laundry room, mud room, etc.

While mini blinds have a reputation for being used in motor homes and cheap apartments, they are functional, durable and affordably and you don’t have to buy the cheapest looking aluminum ones. Mini blinds today are available in a wide variety of colors, finishes and styles.

Interior Window Shutters

Generally speaking interior shutters will cost more than window blinds. Quality plantation shutters are typically made with real wood, although vinyl interior shutters can be a more affordable option, if you like the look.

Most people prefer the look of real wood shutters and opt to splurge on these in prominent rooms that will really benefit from the stylish look of real wood shutters. Using them in one or two rooms may not break your budget if you can find other rooms where you might offset the expense with less costly window coverings.

Bamboo Blinds and Shades

Another option is to go with the natural look of woven wood blinds or bamboo matchstick shades. Bamboo blinds have become quite popular and can work in a variety of design styles, from Asian-inspired décor to tropical and beach décor and modern, contemporary or transitional room designs.

Shop online to save money on your window blinds purchase.

Where to Find Discount Window Blinds and Shades

Your best bet is to shop online first to establish baseline prices for all the blinds and shades you need and zero in on a few options that put the total within your budget range. Then call around and visit a few local retailers to compare prices and weigh the value of installing them yourself or having a local company do the installation for you.

You will probably find that the online prices are lower, so you have to decide for yourself the importance of local service. Another option is to visit discount stores such as Home Depot, Costco and Wal-Mart; these bigger retailers sometimes have great discounts on certain brands and models that may fit your budget and room design.

Look for closeout sales and negotiate for the best price by comparing retailers’ prices; point out the prices of one retailer to another if you feel it may get you a better deal. Even if you don’t get a better price this way, you may get cheaper installation or enhanced features by shopping around and taking a little extra time to select your window blinds!

Arch top windows bring graceful curves and additional light and warmth into any room, adding interest unique elegance to the room décor inside and enhancing a home’s architectural style from the outside.

But deciding how to select blinds, shades, shutters or another type of window covering can be challenging when dealing with the custom sizes and elliptical shapes of arched windows!

Types of Arched Windows Used in Homes

Arched windows are gracefully curved, making it a fun challenge to design the proper type of window treatment!

Single Arch Window Treatments

With the increasing popularity of single arch windows, most of the major window fashions manufacturers now offer an array of blinds, shades and shutters made to fit standard size arch windows. If you have a custom arched window, completely round window or sunburst window, many of these window treatments are also available in custom sizes and shapes.

Look at arch window coverings from a top brand such as Hunter Douglas, Bali or Graber to find a wide range of cellular and pleated shades in both light filtering and blackout materials and colors galore. Motorized operation is a great option if you have a very stall sunburst window.

Arched Top Window Treatments

The EasyView® arch by Hunter Douglas.

The decision to leave arch windows naked and natural or to cover them is inevitably related to the orientation of the windows, how much privacy is needed in the room and whether the theme and design elements of the room better fit bare or treated arch windows.

But for convenience and practicality, installing some type of window treatment on your arched top windows still makes sense. Shades will protect home furnishings and décor from fading and keep your home cooler on those hot days!

Depending on the location and orientation of your arch window, one option is simply to leave them bare. While this allows plenty of natural light to enter the room and retains the full natural beauty of an arched window, it is often impractical for reasons of light control and privacy!

Arch Window Treatments - Best Bets

Once you decide to install arched window treatments, you’ll want to begin to think and plan the treatment best suited to each window, the functional needs and the room décor. You can make your arched window a focal point in the room or create an

understated look if the fireplace or other design element serves as the focal point. To cover arched windows that enhance and augment your room design, consider these options:

Window Blinds

Island Blinds makes custom size blinds and shades for arch top windows.

Cellular Shades

Cellular and pleated shades are also a popular choice to cover arched windows. In this case, the windows below and the arched-top window above can use a more integral cellular shade design to blend the windows and give more the appearance of a single arch window.

Interior Shutters

Traditional or colonial style shutters with movable louvers are a very elegant way to treat arch windows. Plantation shutters with wider three or four inch wide slats will give your room a clean, modern look. Shutters may be either the café type or double-tier design.

Curtains or Drapes

For a softer look, a semicircular shirred-on fabric can be fitted the arch. Use a drapery rod at the point where the curves begin to give the window a greater sense of verticality. If you go all out with a layered window treatment, it can really enhance your arched window as a focal point for the room.

Arched Window Swags

Use decorative hardware and a simple swag to accent your arched window covering, adding color and texture to the room. Simple touches can really add appeal and interest to your room design; repeats and echo patterns of the arches can be a great way to tie things together for example.

Understated Arched Window Treatment

If you do not intend your arched window to be a focal point or have multiple arched top windows in one room, leaving them bare or installing simple shades or fabric panels often makes sense. A simple sheer fabric panel will let subdued, filtered light in without drawing undo attention to its role as a covering.

Motorized Window Treatments

Motorized controls are a huge convenience if you have very tall arched windows to cover. At the touch of a button, you can set whatever lighting and filtering you want by angling window blind slats or raising and lowering the stack for even more flexibility.

The motorized cellular shades are not too expensive to install, but do remember to consider wiring needs. Integrated lighting control systems can even dim or brighten the lights in concert with the setting of arched top window blinds or shades. You can have a setting for waking to filtered early morning sunlight, one for late evening privacy, and another for rainy days when it’s dark out and you want to let in every last bit of natural light!

Buying Arched Window Blinds and Shades Online

You can save money by shopping online for your blinds and window shades; from a variety of retailers with competitive prices you can choose and purchase your blinds on the Web. Be sure you understand the measuring and fitting directions your reseller offers and understand the warranty and return policies clearly.

Arched Window Treatment Buying Tips

• When shopping online or locally for arch window shutters, keep several considerations in mind:
• Arched window covering installation varies greatly as you can see by the variety of options and choices available. Some are easy to do yourself, while others, such as motorized window treatments, are better left to the pros!
• Look at lots of pictures before you decide what type of window treatment to use; make a design that is unique and fits your budget, room design and functional requirements.
• Wood or faux wood blinds can have many types of finishes, from natural wood grain stains and finishes to painted finishes in white or off white and other colors.
• Finishing your own blinds is not typically necessary, but be sure you select the color and finish that best suits your window treatment design.
• Finish quality is important to buying arched window coverings that will be durable and long lasting. Check to see how your manufacturer applies paints or protective coatings and warrantees their products.
   

There are some tradeoffs to consider in terms of higher cost and design and attractiveness with any of the options available that can make your room entirely dark versus typical blinds and window treatments.

Read on to learn what options you have to make your room dark when required, but still giving you total control over light and privacy in your home or business setting.

There are many situations in which typical window coverings simply aren’t adequate to control the light entering an interior space through windows and doors.

Typical situations that require total blackout window treatments include:

• Home Theater Room - window glare greatly reduces the picture quality of most projection and large screen HDTV televisions.
• Baby Nursery - your baby or toddler will nap much more restfully if the nursery is completely dark.
• Bedroom - if you work night shifts or suffer from insomnia and need to sleep during the day, studies prove that you will sleep better in a completely dark room.
• Studio or Darkroom - if you are a photographer and still like the quality of film versus digital images, then a darkroom is required. Also, if you have a photo or art studio, then blackout shades or curtains are a necessity.
• Business and Commercial - many business and commercial interiors have need for a completely dark environment to conduct operations like research, customer demonstrations and audio/video presentations, etc.

The ultimate in luxury and convenience, motorized blackout shades make any home theater room completely dark for better enjoyment of a large screen or projection TV system.

When and Where Blackout Shades, Curtains or Blinds are Important

Window Blackout Options

While there are some types of Venetian and mini blinds that can be made to block out most window light, these will typically be quite expensive compared to blackout shades or blackout curtains.

The best options to consider if you need a completely dark room include:

• Blackout Roller Shades - probably the most effective option to darken your interior, blackout roller shades are made with special opaque materials to block virtually all light from entering the room when the shade is lowered. The blackout fabric is attached to a spring-based roller bar and can be easily drawn up or down using a manual or optional motorized lift mechanism. Special guides on either side of the shade keep light from entering from the edges where it meets the window opening. The top and bottom of the shade are likewise designed to keep light out. With all these design considerations, you can expect to pay a premium price for blackout shades.
• Blackout Cellular or Pleated Shades - while you will pay a premium for pleated blackout shades, pleated or cellular blackout shades mounted inside a window opening are more stylish in many cases than the roller blackout shades. As with the roller shades, some of the more expensive cellular or pleated blackout shades are also fitted with guides and rails to further block out window light.
• Blackout Curtains - curtains made with blackout liners can be effective for blocking light from entering a room but are unlikely to completely darken the interior like blackout shades can. You can find these available commercially or make your own blackout curtains.
• Blackout Blinds - available with the route-less feature, some window blinds are intended to darken a room more completely than typical Venetian or mini blinds. Add blackout liners if you want the look of window blinds but need to completely darken your room.

Materials and Options for Blackout Window Coverings

Various materials can be used to make blackout shades or blackout curtains; more expensive materials contain approximately 50% fiberglass, while most are a combination of plastic and vinyl materials. Most of these materials will be coated for fire resistance.

If your budget allows, a great option is to get motorized power blackout shades, which will give your commercial interior or home theater room added convenience and style, enabling you to raiser and lower the shades with the touch of a button.

The motorized option is also convenient with hard to reach or very large window spaces, and makes it significantly easier to darken or lighten the interior as you desire.

You can purchase most types of blackout shades online or through local specialty retailers. As with any other window blinds or shades, careful measurement is required before ordering.

Sure, the glass roof of your sun room lets in natural light but sometimes this can cause problems as well.

Once used only as a hothouse to grow plants, today sun rooms more often provide additional living space in the home.

Whether you use your sun room as a living room, playroom or home office, controlling sunlight is important to your enjoyment of the space, allowing you to use it throughout the year.

Blinds protect your conservatory furniture from fading, prevent glare and help control the temperature year round.

Consider a few of the advantages of installing blinds in your sun room:

• Reduces the harsh glare of direct sunlight
• Provides privacy and a pleasing decorative element
• Protects your furniture from those harsh UV rays and heat the sun brings during the warmer months
• Blinds can also help keep the heat inside your conservatory during the colder months

Whether you choose Pleated, Venetian Roller or Pinoleum sun room blinds, you can find affordable, quality products online, with local installation options available from most manufacturers if you choose not to install them yourself.

As a decorative, yet affordable option, you can purchase cellular shades for your sun room roof. Cellular sun room blinds provide excellent shade and sun protection, but don’t completely block out the light, keeping your sun room open and airy. Venetian blinds in either aluminum or a faux wood finish are another affordable option.

Roll up sun room roof blinds are also a good option, offering solar reflectivity for maximum heat protection and keeping direct sunlight out during the hottest part of the day to keep your conservatory cool.

Conservatory blinds offer a an affordable window covering option to shade your conservatory or sun room from the glare and harsh UV rays of direct sunlight.

Available with either mechanical or remote control operation, Roll up blinds give you a flat look that is simple and available in a wide range of colors and fabrics.

Finally, you could spend a little more and choose Pinoleum roof blinds, which come in either Roller or Roman blind styles made from wood. The Pinoleum blinds have the added quality of casting light and shadow inside your sun room, giving a subtle, dappled effect of light and retaining views to the outside.

Protecting your furniture from unkind rays and heat of the Sun, our conservatory blinds also help keep heat in through the winter months, and offer you the level of confidentiality you desire.

Regardless which type of conservatory blinds you select, you won’t be disappointed with the added privacy, sun protection and temperature control they provide. Once you have them installed you’ll find yourself spending even more time relaxing at home in the comfort of your sun room!

An ideal and stylish window covering in the room has the power to transform the undesired mood into a desired one.

Therefore, it becomes all the more important to have ideal window coverings at appropriate windows.

It’s one thing to have the best of fabric for your window coverings, but if, for example, the color of fabric does not match the overall scheme of things of the room, then you are in for a major disappointment.

Whether you prefer elegant and natural wooden venetian blinds like these or something more intricate and ornate, these tips will help you find the ideal window coverings to match your interior.

Read these selected tips and pointers to help you in selecting ideal window coverings for your home:

• First thing’s first! The primary purpose of any window covering is two fold – to prevent the sunlight into the room and to protect your privacy from the prying eyes of neighbors. So, whatever fabric, style, design, or color you chose, always remember that these twin objectives are always served.
• 
  Select the window blinds or other window coverings that suit your requirements for letting in and blocking out light. Venetian blinds made a great choice for easy operation and flexible light control.
  If the windows are positioned such that your privacy cannot be compromised, you can omit any window covering. However, if the sunlight is not required in such room, it’s better to have adequate protection on these windows.
• The next step is to decide the kind of atmosphere you want to create in the room where you are planning to install window covering. The rest of your room, the furniture, the flooring etc. will guide you as to the overall feel of the room. You may have a traditional backdrop, or a modern outlook, or a mix-n-match style of room.
• Settle for the window coverings that complement this overall feel of the room. The idea is that your carefully selected window treatment should not look out-of-place when finally installed in the room.
• The fabric for the window coverings should be extremely carefully selected. Different colors depict different moods. Similarly, different patterns can have different impact on the visitors. Generally, brighter colors and patterns signify a room bustling with activities, and lighter colors have a soothing impact.
• Finally, the selection of style is your personality statement. You have tons of styles to choose from a wide range of blinds, curtains, valances, drapes, shades, swags, and shutters.

So, now you’re ready to visit a local showroom or go onto one of our advertiser’s web sites and select the style that is just about perfect for your requirements and taste!

If you have typical windows of different dimensions, it’s best to have made-to-measure window coverings.

With more and more people getting hooked on having personalized style statement in the form of window coverings, the reputed companies have suddenly raised the rates of their premium brands.

As a result, the initial budget for window coverings almost always has to be revised northwards.

Aside from price, you also have to beware of quality and style. In sum, your aim should always be to get the best in style and design at competitive prices.

You dont have to spend a large sum of money to find window coverings that match your room decor and give you the privacy and flexible light control you desire.

Though it’s not darn easy to strike such outrageous deals, yet it’s not too difficult a proposition either. Here are some tips that’ll help you in your purchase of quality window coverings within your budget:

• One thing you should be clear about is that you are up against it when searching for inexpensive options for your window coverings. So, be prepared to think out-of-the-box and let your creative juices flow to banish the orthodox and accept the distinct.
• You can easily save money on the fabric that is exposed to sunlight. Expensive silk is one of the most delicate of all the fabrics used on the exposed region. Cheaper fabrics, like acrylic, modacrylic, and even polyester can be used as effective sun resistant material.
• The tension rod can be covered with a thick piece of PVC pipe after rubbing off the numbers on the pipe that could spoil the fabric. This PVC pipe is quite inexpensive and can be easily decorated with paints to give them a unique look.
• Wrought iron curtain rod with pinch clips, and either hemmed or un-hemmed fabric can also be used to curtail the rising cost factor. Moreover, you can chose inexpensive decorative items like ribbons or ties to enhance the overall look of your window coverings.
• Finally, there is no substitute to discount stores. No matter how hard you try to save money on window coverings, if the purchase is costly, then after-purchase treatment won’t count for much.
  So, it’s better if you perform a thorough market research for discount stores. You can also wait till season-ending sale to strike really outrageous deals for inexpensive window coverings.

Many quality, yet affordable and inexpensive window coverings are available in the market. It just needs a prudent buyer to get the benefit of unbelievable offers.

If you want to make people as well as yourself keep longing to visit the room again and again, there is a dire need to devote ample time on the furnishing aspect.

The blinds that are silently hung on the windows should not be underestimated in terms of enhancing the decorative value of your room.

All the expensive furniture, decorative items, floorings, carpeting, and paints could fade away if the windows are adorned with misfit and unsuitable blinds.

Choosing the right window blinds is a matter of deciding on the right color, type and style to match your room decor and budget.

• Firstly, you have to ponder over certain facts that can influence your purchase of blinds. For instance, the amount of privacy you want in a room, the requirements for natural light in the room, the direction of your window face, the opening of windows (way and frequency), the hindrance to direct sunlight on outside (if any), the amount of soundproofing required, and most importantly, your budget.
• After deciding upon the abovementioned factors, the next step is to settle for a suitable style and material that fits the above requirements. The marketplace is agog with different styles and materials for blinds. For instance, Venetian Blinds, Bamboo Blinds, Roller Blinds, Roman Blinds, Vertical Blinds, Wooden Blinds, Pleated Blinds, Honeycomb Blinds, etc.
• The idea is to select the style and material that suits your requirements as well as that enhances the overall grace of your room. Since every style and material has its own benefits and pitfalls, you must remain informed at every step of your purchase.
• Color and design of the blinds should be selected keeping in mind the colors and designs of other furniture in the room, flooring, wall painting, and other major decorative items in the room.
• After having decided on style, material, and color, the next step is to measure for your blinds. Most errors are committed at this stage. People usually do not follow the basic instructions of measuring to 1/8 of an inch and tend to round off the dimensions. This results in mis-fit blinds on the windows that look worse than having none. For made-to-measure blinds, this is perhaps the most crucial aspect, apart from cutting the fabric according to the dimensions.
• Lastly, always keep in mind that delivery costs are always additional to the basic preparation costs. There may be some installation costs if you decide to have installation services from the outside. So, the budget should be prepared after carefully considering all cost aspects that go into the process.

You don’t want to spoil the look of authentic Queen Anne furniture with modern Venetian blinds or detract from your French provincial furniture with aluminum mini blinds, which would be entirely out of keep with the look of that period.

Still, while you want your window coverings to match your traditional style of decor, you may also want the convenience and practical features of modern window fashions.

So, how do you achieve the look of old world design while retaining the functions of controlling natural light and privacy we all expect from a modern window treatment?

Read on for tips on designing practical, yet elegant window treatments that enhance and coordinate correctly with the design, color and feel of your old world room decor.

Floral prints and contrasting colors can give your window coverings a touch of the old world!

Begin with Window Covering Basics

Richly ornate, this Queen Anne Victorian decor featues deep red drapes with contrasting gold fringes, tasseled tiebacks and a curved, double-layered valence.

As with any window treatment, a well though out design begins with consideration of the use of the room and practical matters of window size, what lies outside the window that you wish to leave unobstructed or conversely need to obscure from prying eyes and how much or little natural light you desire entering the room.

If privacy is not of great concern and you want a lot of natural light then forego any base layer and design your old world window treatment purely for aesthetics and an authentic appearance that is true to the room decor.

On the other hand, in a bedroom, bathroom or any other room where you want the versatility of modern window coverings, a base layer is probably the best route to take. Use a base window covering such as a roller shade or pleated blind in a neutral color like white or off-white for privacy and flexible light control without detracting from your decorative window fashion elements.

If you opt not to use a base layer, you can also achieve privacy and block out natural light using lined draperies, which may even look more authentic with some old world interior decors.

Decorative Window Treatment Elements

Once you have the basics of privacy and light filtration covered, you can consider the more decorative elements that will best achieve the old world look you’re after. Historic references can be helpful at this stage of your planning and design efforts.

Like a scene from a fairly tale, the fabric valance and arched window in this frenc provincial sitting room invite the eye to discover curves and patterns echoed throughout the decor.

For instance, if you are designing a room to emulate the look of 17th century Baroque, then a decorative topper such as a window cornice with ornate Baroque style carving and finished in gilded gold will appropriately match velvet, chenille or taffeta drapes appointed in the colors and patterns of the baroque style.

To create the look of a French provincial sitting room or bedroom, then perhaps using a swag or scarf in a deep red and/or gold fabric would make an excellent topper, contrasting with cream colored full length drapes in a soft taffeta fabric.

In the ornate Queen Anne Victorian style, you will want to select drapes that match the color scheme and patterns of your furniture upholstery, area rugs and throw pillows, with gold embroidery and dark, rich colors in your drapery fabric or else adding some texture with white or cream lace. A fringed or tasseled valence and tiebacks with tassels or fringe will complement your elegant Victorian room decor quite nicely.

Or, if your Victorian home has ornate window casings, trim and crown moldings, you might go with something simple like white lace curtains that don’t detract from the eye candy!

For a slightly more casual look, you could use tapestry cafe curtains with a fringed detail to add texture to your old world window coverings.

Elegant full length drapes in rich gold fabric give this dining room a formal mood and nostalgic feeling of the distant past, when only royalty would have such a beautiful table upon which to feast.

Old World Drapery Hardware

Drapery hardware such as ornate finials and tiebacks will also complement your old world interior nicely, adding a finishing touch to your elegant window treatment.

Be sure to use drapery rods, curtain rings and other hardware that is in keeping with the period as well, using finishes such as gilded gold, antique brass or faux finishes that would have been commonly used for window coverings of the time.

Drapery hardware is like jewelry that adorns and completes the luxurious, formal window coverings typical of the traditional design aesthetic.

Designing an old world window treatment takes patience and careful consideration but will be worth the time invested if you want your window coverings to enhance the theme and period or design movement you are striving to achieve in the look of your interior!

You can make your vertical blinds or mini blinds even more affordable by installing them yourself, and it’s a lot easier to do than you might think.

Window blinds can be installed in an inside or outside mount depending on your windows and the style you’re looking for.

Be sure to read through our articles on how to measure correctly before ordering your window blinds online.

Follow these simple steps to install your window blinds.

Installing your own window blinds is not a difficult project.

To install your window blinds, you’ll need:

• Blinds
• Brackets
• A ladder
• A level
• Measuring tape
• Screwdrivers
• Screws

Prep Work

• Remove your current window treatments and fill any exposed holes with joint compound or spackling.
• You may also need to touch up the paint if it will show around the new window blinds.

Installing an Outside Mount Window Blind

• Measure the windows. You will need to go about three inches past each side and allow sufficient space above the window for the mounting bracket. You may also want to extend below the bottom of the window to make it look symmetrical.
• Screw the left and right side brackets into the walls at the desired height above the window. Always double check with a level to make sure that the blinds will hang straight.
• Check the blinds to make sure they are not tangled and will hang straight. Install the head rail by snapping it into place on the brackets. Close the bracket covers if provided with your model.
• If you have a valance, install the clips according to the directions, and then insert the valance into them. Note that some models may require the valance may need to be installed before the head rail.

Installing an Inside Mount Window Blind

• Measure the height and width of the window in three places and use the narrowest of the three measurements.
• Install the brackets on the jambs inside the casing. Always double check with a level to make sure that the blinds will hang straight.
• Check the blinds to make sure they are not tangled and will hang straight. Install the head rail by snapping it into place on the brackets. Close the bracket covers if provided with your model.
• If you have a valance, install the clips according to the directions, and then insert the valance into them. Note that some models may require the valance may need to be installed before the head rail.

And while not everyone thinks of window coverings as creative, you can make or break a room design with the window treatments!

By combining window fashion elements such as curtains, blinds, shades, shutters and decorative hardware, there is no limit to how creative one can get with window treatments.

And with a little imagination and basic sewing skills, designing your own, unique window treatments can be a fun do-it-yourself project.

You can make window treatments simple or very elaborate. There are even some that do not involve sewing. Whatever type of window interior decorations you come up with, they should reflect your tastes and fit the function and style of your rooms.

The starting point in designing a do it yourself window treatment is deciding what you want to accomplish. Do you want to bring more light into the room or shut the light out? Do you need to add privacy? Do you want to retain views outside your window or block something outside from being visible? Do you need good ventilation or better energy efficiency? What window treatments best fit your decorating budget and style?

Once you have a basic idea what you want to accomplish, measure your windows using a retractable tape measure. A metal tape measure is best since it won’t have any slack like a cloth tape measure, so your results will be more accurate. Be sure to write down each window’s measurements on paper and check all your measurements at least twice. Accurate measurements are vital to making do it yourself window treatments come out the way you want!

Once you’ve measured your windows, you are ready to determine colors, patterns and fabric selection. When selecting your fabric types, patterns and colors, you’ll want to consider the style and theme of your rooms and furnishings. The color and style of carpeting and other flooring materials, wall colors, and room accessories all need to be considered.

If you go with neutral window coverings in a room that also has neutral wall colors, it can help make the room appear to be more spacious. If you go with contrasting colors, your room will have greater visual impact and the eye will be drawn to the windows.

Window toppers or top treatments will add decorative style and give your windows a unique look. Top treatments can include features such as cornices, festoons, valances, swags, and scarves. You can also use toppers to help hide window treatment hardware or make windows appear taller.

Decorative window covering hardware can be used to add a finishing touch to your window treatments. Use items such as scarf holders, curtain rings, pins, rods, tiebacks and finials to accessorize your treatment. This is where you can really get creative and give your window coverings the personal touch!

Here are a few thoughts to consider when designing your window treatments:

Does your room get a lot of natural window light?

A layered window treatment provides the most versatile control of light. Use lined drapes or try putting shades under your curtains or drapes for flexible light and privacy control.

Does your room seem too dark and lacking natural light?

Sheer fabric curtains let in the light but do not always provide enough privacy. Another alternative is to use horizontal/Venetian blinds which stack nicely when raised to let in as much light as possible. When lowered, you can also angle the slats to adjust the amount of light entering your room.

Are the windows in your room out of proportion?

If you have a very short window, try mounting the treatment higher than the top of the window or add a valance to help lengthen the window. If you have a narrow window, use outside mount blinds or shades or hang curtains or drapes wider than the window opening to help add width.

Does your room have a particular design theme or style?

It goes without saying that window treatments should always match the style of your room decor. Full length drapes tend to work best in a formal setting, while blinds, shades and/or short curtains that hang to the same height as the window sill tend to give an informal feel.

What is your window treatment budget?

As with any home decorating project, budget helps determine your choices. Plan ahead by pricing the fabrics, decorative hardware and other window covering elements to be sure your budget will cover all the costs. If needed, you can make trade offs in order to get the total cost into an acceptable range.

You can stretch your budget by pairing a more expensive fabric in your topper, which requires far less fabric, with something more affordable for curtain panels

If real wood shutters or Venetian blinds are too expensive to fit the budget, consider vinyl instead. Also, you might splurge on a bay window or picture window that is most prominent in your home and use less expensive treatments for other windows.

Designing and making your own, creative window treatments will give you a sense of achievement and satisfaction in knowing that they reflect your own personality, tastes and handiwork!

But what color choices are the right ones to use when selecting new window blinds, shades, curtains, drapes or a layered window treatment?

Read on to learn more about the top ten colors being used by interior designers these days to give window coverings a little more spice or even a complete makeover that can transform the look of an interior!

1. Black with White

Bold and fashionable, black and white has become all the rage in home decor. The stark contrast of black and white is classic in foyer flooring and bathroom color schemes, but you can also create unique window coverings with this color combination.

White window blinds or shades with a black valance or decorative black and white print curtain pattern will certainly give your window fashion design style and drama.

2. Black with Any Color

Some people frown upon using black in home decorating, but consider that black goes with almost anything, giving the eyes something solid to rest upon.
As a neutral color, black has the advantage of contrasting well with most other colors as well as providing privacy and light control since it absorbs light.

Use black in your window curtains or drapes and you can use any accent color you like in the pattern of your fabric, your window hardware or wall paint.

3. Red

A striking contrast can be achieved with red, as this austrian blind window treatment in red and beige demonstrates.

In a formal dining room, sitting room or other room intended for entertaining guests, red is commonly used to add a regal tone and is often associated with extroverts and socializing. Red also is very complementary to greens, blues and yellows, making it a perfect match in many color schemes.

Fabrics like velvet and linen in deep reds can give formality and richness to your window treatments, with gold embroidery or other adornments enhancing a traditional decor.

On the other hand, if you like a modern, contemporary or retro decor, bright shades of red can make a very bold statement as well.

4. Orange

Earthy and natural, oranges will add warmth to your room. Related to red, oranges come in a wide variety of tones also, from terra cotta to burnt orange, salmon and peach; you have oranges from very saturated to pastel and earth tones.

Cellular shades are available in many shades of orange. Or you could use woven wood or bamboo blinds to give your room some orange-brown earth tones.

5. Metallic

If you like modern, then metallic finishes could be perfect for your window blinds. Most blinds manufactures offer metal blinds in a variety of finishes these days, whether you want the look of brushed nickel, smooth silver, copper or platinum.

Modern design makes use of the contrast of natural materials like woods against the hard surfaces and geometry of metal finishes.
Another way to use metals in your window coverings will be hardware; curtain rods, rings, finials and other items can subtly infuse the look of metal into your room decor without overpowering it.

Green, whether a shade like this yellow green or something more blue green will give your window coverings vibrant spring warmth.

6. Yellow Greens

Brighten your room with yellow green, using shades like lime green, pale apple, willow green to give your room the fresh and airy look of spring or summer.
If you like something darker, shades like hunter or forest green are deeper colors that can give a home office, library or other room a stately feeling.

You can find a good selection of window blinds, shades and fabrics for curtains or drapes in many shades of greens and yellows.

7. Blue Greens

Cool and soothing, blue greens can range from teal or sea green to aquamarine and turquoise or brighter hues like Caribbean blue or jade.

Consider how your window treatment will look from the exterior view of your home. Blue adds a nice contrast to this brick and stone facade.

As an ascending color, blue can help make your room appear larger, while also giving it the serene and refreshing harmony of sea and sky.

A classic home decor color, blue is not often found in floral patterns and many traditional patterns use blue with white, red or gold, with stripes, checks and plaid geometric patterns being popular.

Navy and denim blues are trendy these days and you could design some creative curtains with a denim fabric. Try French blue for something a bit more country or a deep royal blue for something more formal.

9. Purple

Of course, deep shades of purple are associated with royalty; amethyst, plum and violet are popular.

But you can also use a delicate shade of lilac, lavender or hyacinth for a more feminine look. These colors are well complemented by white or yellow.

10. Neutral

Always popular, the best selling window blind and shade colors sold always tend to be neutral tones; white, cream and beige predominate. Neutral tones make a good foundation for most color schemes.

And, while you can purchase valances in many styles and fabric patterns, if you are handy with a sewing machine, it’s quite simple to make a unique window valance.

You can use almost any weight of fabric to make your window valance, from a lightweight cotton or fine silk to heavy brocade or velvet; choose a fabric that complements the color scheme, textures and patterns in your room.

What You Need to Make a Window Valance

• Fabric of your choice and matching thread
• Valance track and curtain hooks
• Pencil pleat heading tape

Simple Instructions to Make a Window Valance

1. Install valance track into place over window opening.
2. Measure front and sides of valance track and multiply by two to obtain fullness ratio and allow an extra four inches for the hem.
3. Unless your fabric is railroaded, divide by the width of your fabric and round up to the next whole number to determine the number of widths you will need.
4. Decide what you want the finished length of your valance to be, adding three inches for the hems to calculate your cut length. If you’re using a fabric with a pattern, you will need extra fabric to match the pattern matching.
5. Multiply your cut length by the number of widths to determine the amount of fabric you will need.

Make your own window valance with these easy to follow instructions.
6. If your fabric is railroaded, the amount of fabric you need is determined by measuring the front and sides, plus 4 inches for the hems. Multiply this sum by the fullness ratio of two.
7. Cut the fabric to size as measured in the previous steps. If your fabric is not railroaded and you need more than a single width, join multiple widths together using a French seam. Be sure to leave a full width in the middle and equal part widths on either side, with the pattern matched across the widths.
8. Hem down each side and pin, turning in double one inch hems.
9. Hem along the bottom edge and pin, turning up a double one inch hem.
10. Now mitre the bottom corners of the valance and stitch all three hems into place.
11. Turn down one inch at the top and press the valance.
12. At both ends of the heading tape, free the cords to the right side.
13. Place your fabric back side up on a flat surface. Run the heading tape along the top edge and close to the fold.
14. Pin the heading tape and position your cord tidy bags into place, two inches in from each side of the fabric.
15. Next, stitch the heading tape into place. Be sure to sew both rows of stitches in the same direction to prevent any puckering.
16. Pull the cords from both ends so the valance is the right width per your measurements. Secure them into place with a sliding loop and roll up any excess cord and stuff it neatly into the cord tidy bags on either end.
17. After adjusting your gathers evenly, insert curtain hooks every four inches, using the pockets on your heading tape to attach them.
18. You are ready to hang your window valance on the track using the hooks!

But Venetian blinds (also called horizontal blinds) all have one thing in common when it comes to keeping them clean; the slats are dust magnets and are not always easy to dust or clean!

There are several methods you can use to clean your Venetian blinds, depending on whether you need to lightly clean or deep clean them, the width of the slats and, most importantly, the material and finish.

Read on to learn the techniques you can use to properly clean and care for Venetian Blinds.

Metal Venetian Blinds

If you light clean your Venetian blinds regularly, you can avoid having to take them down for deep cleaning more than once a year!

When handling painted metal venetian blinds, take care not to bang the slats against each other or woodwork to prevent scratching the paint, which exposes the metal, diminishing their appearance and shortening the blind’s useful life.

You should not bend or separate metal slats to look out the window; always use the tilt wand or cords to angle the slats. If a metal slat is bent and kinked, it can’t really be reshaped into place and you’ll have to replace it and restring your blind.

Synthetic Polymer or Faux Wood Venetian Blinds

An advantage of faux wood Venetian blinds is that you can deep clean them by washing them in a bathtub.
Light cleaning of a synthetic polymer blind can be done using a feather duster or deep cleaning can be done by taking the blind down and washing it as detailed below.

Wooden Venetian Blinds

You should take special care when cleaning real wood products, including your wooden Venetian Blinds and should not wash them in most cases!

For detailed instructions, you should read our article on How to Clean Real Wood Blinds.

Venetian Blind Cleaning Preparation

Before you begin cleaning Venetian blinds using either of the light cleaning methods we present here, start by checking your blind for problem areas, wiping off sticky spots, stains, etc. You can use window spray cleaner to do this with metal or polymer blinds. Wipe them dry with a soft cotton cloth or paper towel.

Have a step stool available since you may need it in order to reach the top of your window blinds while dusting or vacuuming.

If you have curtains or other decorative window treatments around your blind, tie them back or otherwise move them out of the way.

Venetian Blind Light Cleaning by Hand

1. Lower the blind all the way and angle the slats completely closed.
2. Use either soft white cotton gloves or cotton cloth; some people also use clothes dryer sheets since they are meant to reduce static electricity.
3. For metal or polymer blinds you can dampen the gloves or cloth slightly with a solution of warm water and a very small amount of mild dish washing liquid.
4. Run your gloved fingers or cloth lightly over the slats from the center to one edge and then again from the center to the other edge of each slat. This is better than trying to clean a slat from one edge all the way across to the other edge, which is more likely to smear additional dust.
5. Reverse the angle of the slats so they are closed in the opposite direction and repeat the process.
6. Remember to change gloves or cleaning cloths every so often or you’ll simply end up moving dust around on the slats rather than removing it!

Venetian Blind Light Cleaning with a Vacuum Cleaner

1. The easiest way to prevent dust and grime from building up in the first place is to regularly vacuum your Venetian blinds with a soft brush attachment!
2. Lower the blind all the way and angle the slats completely closed.
3. Use a soft brush attachment only to avoid chipping or scratching slats.
4. Hold the blind in place with one hand and vacuum with the other so that you don’t bang the slats together or against the window as you clean them.
5. As with the hand cleaning technique above, vacuum from the center out toward each end, making two passes rather than trying to clean from one end to the other in a single pass.
6. Reverse the angle of the slats so they are closed in the opposite direction and repeat the process.

Deep Cleaning Synthetic Polymer or Metal Venetian Blinds

1. Lower the blind all the way and angle the slats completely closed.
2. Remove the blind from its mounting bracket, taking care not to loose screws or other mounting hardware and keeping the cords from getting tangled. It is best if possible to keep your manufacturer’s instructions handy for reference when removing/replacing blinds.
3. Fill your bathtub about half full with warm water and a small amount of mild dish washing soap. Set the blind in the tub and let it soak for about thirty minutes; if dirt and grime have really built up, you can even soak the blind overnight. Gently fold the blind over where it is too long to fit into the tub so that all the slats are completely immersed.
4. Scrub the slats gently on both sides with a soft brush.
5. Empty the soapy water and refill with clean warm water to rinse off residual soap. If your tub has a hand held shower attachment, this works best for rinsing. Otherwise, use a bucket and continue pouring fresh water over the blind until it is rinsed clean.
6. Hang the blind outdoors if the weather is warm and dry or over the tub to dry. You can use a hairdryer on the cool setting to help speed drying.
7. Once the blind is completely dry, you are ready to remount it!

You’ll enjoy your window blinds and extend their life by keep them clean and shiny!

Here are some additional tips on caring for your Venetian blinds:

• Clean blinds one room at a time if the prospect of cleaning them all at one time seems too daunting.
• Use a soft feather duster or soft, damp cloth to quickly dust blinds at the same time you are dusting the rest of your home during normal house cleaning; the more often you dust your blinds, the less often you will need to take them down for deep cleaning.
• When dusting Venetian blinds, always start with the top slat and work your way down so that dust doesn’t fall on to slats you’ve already cleaned.
• An alternative to using the bathtub for deep cleaning metal or synthetic polymer Venetian blinds is to take them down and spread them out carefully on a flat surface where you can use a large bucket of warm, soapy water and a brush to clean the slats. Pour clean water over them using a bucket or garden hose to rinse them.
• Remember; unless instructed specifically otherwise by your window blind manufacturer, you should not attempt to deep clean or wash wooden Venetian blinds or you may cause the slats to warp or crack!

While they may seem harmless enough, the Window Covering Safety Council (a United States organization) reports that, since 1981, some 360 children have died as a result of strangulation from window cords and that 93% of these deaths involved children age three or younger.

However, you can easily protect your children from this potential hazard. Read on to learn how to safeguard your children from the hazard of window cords.

The Dangers of Window Cords to Children

Protecting your child from the dangers of window cords is easy if you follow a few basic precautions.

In the majority of instances, the parents were home but could not hear the child, since the nature of this hazard prevents him or her from calling for help.

There are two most common occurrences that cause such deaths; either an infant in his or her crib placed near a window is caught in the window cords while sleeping or playing or else a toddler attempting to look out a window climbs on furniture to reach the window and loses his or her balance, getting tangled in the window cords.

Most of these child deaths (86 percent) involve either venetian blinds or mini blinds.

Venetian-style vertical blinds may also pose a strangulation danger to children (9 percent of the deaths), while other products that can cause child strangulation include pacifiers on strings, baby gates designed in accordion-type configurations, recliner chairs and electric garage doors.

Window and Window Cord Child Safety Precautions

Window cords attached to blinds or shades, curtain or drapery tie-backs and pull-back cords all present potential strangling hazards for young children.

When selecting and fitting new blinds or other window coverings, or to retrofit existing window coverings, use this checklist to ensure your home’s windows and window cords are safe for children:

1. Check all areas in your home for potential child hazards, including window cords.
2. In the nursery, children’s bedrooms and play areas use cordless window coverings.
3. If you have older window blinds in your home (generally those manufactured prior to 2001) you should consider either replacing them or retrofitting them with safety tassels for child safety.
4. Place children’s beds, cribs, furniture and toys away from windows and window cords; if possible move them to a wall away from any windows.
5. Be sure to keep window lift cords and pull cords out of your child’s reach.
6. Pull cords with safety tassels should be short.
7. If you have window coverings with continuous loop cords, anchor them securely to the wall or floor with no slack in the cords. Ideally, you should replace these fittings which are no longer up-to-date.
8. Cord stops should be installed and adjusted properly to limit inner lift cord movement.
9. Install window locks or bars to prevent children falling from your home’s windows. Window locks are inexpensive, but be sure your fire escape plan takes these mechanisms into consideration as you don’t want to replace one potential danger with another.
10. When selecting new blinds, verticals, and drapes or curtains, be sure to ask your retailer or manufacture about the child safety features their products incorporate.

Perhaps you saw a room with tinted windows on an interior design show or in a magazine.

Or maybe you’re looking for a more streamlined window treatment that won’t overwhelm your rooms.

Whatever your reasons, you’re thinking about window tinting or window film for your home. It’s a terrific idea.

While many of us only think of window tints for cars, window tinting for the home is really on the rise.

Window Tinting Basics

To put it simply, window tints and tinting films are applied directly to your windows.

They can serve a variety of purposes. They can be decorative, in the case of films with cutouts or stained glass patterns. They can work to repel heat in the summer and retain it in the winter. They can help to preserve your privacy from the outside world. They can even help to protect precious furnishings, artwork, and other window treatments from fading due to sun exposure.

There are films made for each of these purposes; depending on exactly what you want to accomplish, you simply need to select the right film for the job and apply it.

Applying Window Film

It’s very easy to apply window film yourself if you take your time and plan ahead. Simply follow these steps:

1. First, determine what kind of film you have. Some films are designed to be applied to the inside of the window and others to the outside. There are even films that have varying application instructions depending on your window type. So the instructions for a single pane window are different from those for a double pane. Add storm panes to the mix, and it can be confusing to figure out exactly where the films go. Take the time to fully read the instructions to make sure that you are installing your films on the right surface.
2. Collect all of your materials and read the instructions fully once you begin. One of the things about installing window tints is that it’s really a two-handed project. It’s a good idea to have a helper, but if you don’t, it’s particularly important to read all of the instructions in full before you start.
3. Select a time to apply when the glass is cool, but isn’t going to freeze in the next few days. This insures that the film will adhere properly.
4. Next, you’ll need to make sure that your film is trimmed properly. If you have a made-to-order film, it might be tempting to skip this step. Don’t. Even a slight overlap onto the casing can result in buckling, creases, and poor adhesion. Besides, if you’ve selected a decorative window film or a stained glass window film, you’ll need to make sure that the pattern lies the way that you want it. Even if there is no pattern, take the time to put the dry film onto the window to see how it looks. Trim the film if necessary to make sure that there is a slight gap between the film and the edges of the window. This gap is necessary to get all of the water out from under the film to assure correct adhesion. Also, the gap will allow the window to naturally expand and contract without removing the film.
5. Your film should come with instructions, but generally, the process is to apply an adhesive/water mix to the window and keep it wet while applying the film. The film is placed onto the window, and a squeegee is worked from the center of the film outward to remove all of the excess water and air bubbles. Then, the film is left to cure over a few days. And voila! Your window film is installed.

While it’s true that bamboo is one of the most popular materials for woven blinds and shades, there are plenty of other options available to get the right look that you need.

The styles and options available have certainly progressed past the clunky, unattractive styles of the past.

Today, you can find woven wood shades in a variety of styles, colors, and patterns.

Consider using woven wood shades in your home; simply follow these tips to choose the right ones.

As an alternative to Venetian blinds, woven wood blinds and shades offer natural color, texture and warmth in your home.

Selecting Woven Wood Blinds

Woven woods now come in a variety of styles and materials. You can purchase natural, environmentally friendly materials such as bamboos, jute, reeds, and grasses, or you can go with real or faux wood blinds. Combining them with curtains will give your window covering a stylish, one-of-a-kind look.

The material you choose will affect how the blind moves and looks. Very slim grasses or reeds will result in what’s called a matchstick blind. It’s very flexible and can offer a smooth or stubbled surface depending on the material. Larger wood or bamboo blinds will provide an increasingly more textured look with progressively lower levels of flexibility.

If you add a valance or curtains to your woven wood blinds or shades, you can create a very unique and stylish window treatment!

Some styles come with a liner that will help to filter out the light. Depending on the style you select, the liner may or may not show from the inside of the room.

As with the other types of window blinds, you have many options available regarding how they will open and close. One of the most common styles for woven wood blinds is the Roman shade, which pulls up into long pleats.

There are some varieties of the Roman shade which offer tighter or looser pleats as well. Roller shades obviously just roll up. Generally, they’re controlled by pull cord, although you can also find versions with decorative ties. The ties are really visually attractive, but they’re a pain to use and probably not the best option if you plan to be opening and closing the blinds frequently.

Taller windows and French doors can be covered with long panels that fold off to the side, similar to the operation of drapes.

Colors and trims can really make all of the difference for woven wood blinds. For example, a light-stained bamboo blind with natural tone binding will give a very different look and feel in comparison to a green-tinted matchstick with black binding. By incorporating valances and binding choices into your design, you can come up with a truly attractive option.

There are also woven wood shade choices out there which incorporate two or more types of wood, usually of different sizes and colors. These provide an almost striped look and can really pop in the right room.

The answer varies, depending on the type of blind you are buying, the location, size and functional requirements of the window you are fitting and personal preference.

This selection guide will explain the types of controls available for Venetian and horizontal window blinds, mini blinds and pleated and cellular shades in order to help you decide which type best suites your needs.

For those who aren’t familiar with window blinds controls, the basic choices include the standby pull cords, wands, cordless and motorized controls.

Pull Cord and Tilt Cord Controls

The most common type of control for horizontal and Venetian blinds is the age old cord. Cords are typically used to lower and raise blinds and also can be used to control the angle of tilt of the window blind slats. Pull cords are also a standard option with pleated or cellular shades.

Many people prefer the tilt cords over the wand or rod type tilt control since you can have symmetrical cords on either side of the blind. Most blind manufacturers and retailers offer the tilt cord as an option.

When selecting any type of window shade or blind with pull cords, be sure they are safe for children, which is the case with almost all window blinds and shades manufactured today. Check with your manufacturer or retailer to be certain!

Wand Tilt Controls

These days, many people opt for the wand or rod tilt option when ordering blinds. If you like the look of wands, which come in many colors and styles, then a wand can be a great option since you’ll never be confused with multiple cords and trying to remember which one is the pull cord and which is the tilt cord!
Of course tilt controls are not applicable if you are buying cellular/pleated shades.

Cordless Controls

If your budget allows, you can also purchase many horizontal or Venetian blinds these days that are “cordless”, allowing you to raise or lower the blind by simply pushing them up or pulling them down.

The cordless option used to be available only for pleated/cellular shades, but recently some manufacturers have also introduced mini blinds and horizontal/Venetian blinds that feature cordless operation. Expect to pay a hefty premium for these blinds however since the mechanism is significantly more costly to produce!

Motorised Controls

The Rolls Royce of window blinds controls is the motorized variety, which can be lowered and raised using a remote control or even automated with light sensors. For the discriminating home decorator without budget constraints, these luxurious controls add comfort and convenience and are especially popular for use in home theatre rooms!

Motorised controls are also an excellent option for blinds or shades to be installed in skylights, roof windows or other window locations that are hard to reach.

Blinds Controls for Large Windows

Placing controls is even more important with a large window needing two or more blinds or shades on a single head rail. Since you have controls for each blind, you could end up being quite confused with a pull cord and a tilt cord on either side of each one!

Generally, you would want to consider having both the tilt and pull cords on the same side of each section of the blind or shade when ordering a unit with one head rail and fitted with either two (common) or three (less common but may be needed for very large windows) blinds or shades.

By keeping the pull and tilt cords to the outsides of the window, you will avoid having cords that dangle in the middle of your window when the blinds or shades are raised. Wands may also be a good option if the look of wands is acceptable to you.

Nobody likes looking through dirty, grimy windows

If you take the time to wash your windows every month or two, you can keep them shiny and clean.

And if you know the right technique, washing your windows really shouldn’t take that much time or effort.

There is an easy way to get your windows clean and this simple guide will teach you how.

Follow these simple steps to clean windows and mirrors in your home:

What You Will Need:

• Two buckets
• Vinegar, ammonia or liquid dish soap
• Large sponge or T bar applicator
• A 12 inch brass squeegee
• Paper towels

Window Washing Steps:

1. Mix your window washing solution in one bucket, using EITHER one capful of ammonia, one cup of vinegar or about four to six drops of liquid dish soap with TWO gallons of warm water. One of the main keys to avoiding streaks is not using too much soap! Fill the other bucket with clean, warm water.
2. Now you are ready to begin washing windows! The best way to wash windows is to apply your solution using a T bar like the pros use. You can buy one online at the window clean centre.
3. If you don’t have a T bar handy, you can use a large sponge. Dip your T bar or sponge in the bucket containing your washing solution, getting it completely wet, but not so wet that you will “flood” the window.
4. Wash the entire surface of the window with your T bar or sponge, giving special attention to the sides and corners of the window frame, since grime and dirt tend to build up in these areas.
5. Dip your squeegee into the clean water bucket. Use a good quality brass squeegee that is clean and dry.
6. Starting on one side at the top of the window, press the squeegee lightly into the surface of the window and pull it downward vertically. Stop pulling the squeegee a few inches before you reach the bottom of the window.
7. Use a clean paper towel to wipe off the squeegee every few pulls to prevent streaking.
8. Repeat this process, pressing the squeegee and pulling down in the area of the window directly next to the one you have just cleaned. Stop each time you reach the same point towards the bottom of the window, leaving a few inches at the bottom un-wiped. Continue this process until you have wiped the solution away from the entire window, except for that bottom few inches.
9. Now, pull the squeegee horizontally across the bottom part of the window and wipe the squeegee off again with a paper towel.
10. Once you have cleaned the entire window surface, use a paper towel t