Understanding & Choosing Custom Blinds

Windows are rarely constructed in a one-size-fits all manner, making custom blinds a pleasingly viable option. Not only can it be nearly impossible finding pre-fabricated blinds for oddly shaped windows, but customers now have the option to control down to the smallest detail when custom ordering their blinds.

The good news is that almost every type of blind can be custom ordered for length and size; here are the most popular blinds to hang on your window:

Cellular or honeycomb blinds are smooth fabric shades that are divided internally into separate 'cells' in a honeycomb-type pattern. These blinds provide great insulation against heat and cold and come in all gradients of light-blocking material. Large cells are better at insulating big windows; smaller cells supply more thorough insulation.

Faux wood blinds are great if you want the look of wood without the expensive price tag or risk of warping. Designed in a vinyl polymer or a wood composite, faux wood blinds can be used in more places than real wood because they will not bend and twist in humid areas like the bathroom. Not only are they stain resistant and easy to clean, but faux wood blinds come in various slat sizes.

Mini blinds are commonly used on sliding and French doors but can be a terrific choice for any window. Mini blinds can be custom ordered in almost any color; customers can even order duotone shades where one side of the shade is one color and the opposite side is another. Try red on the inside and a neutral tone on the outside.

Venetian blinds are one of the most frequently ordered types of custom blinds. These horizontal shades are comprised of separate slats that tilt to control the amount of light let in. You tilt the blinds by twisting a hanging rod that rotates the slats. Controlled by a pulley system, Venetian blinds raise and lower by pressure on their dangling cords. These blinds are available in plastic and in a fabric version, where the thin plastic slats are wrapped in cloth.

Wood blinds are custom ordered to achieve the desired size, stain and finish. Elegant and classic, wood blinds are made from real wood and then finished and stained to the customers' liking. Available in various slat widths and sizes, the customer has complete light control. For example, large slats block the light more fully than smaller ones.

Woven blinds lend a natural air to any room and are available in any style from flat fold, where the shade folds upwards, to a layered Roman shade, where the shade lays in aesthetic folds resembling a woven waterfall. Ordering woven custom blinds can be a great way to guarantee that the shade is not only sized to fit, but that it is also finished off properly, preventing the risk of fraying.