When it comes to home décor, blinds offer both function and style. However, if your blinds are too long, they can block valuable light and create a cluttered look. Shortening blinds is a relatively simple task that can be done yourself with a few basic tools. Here are the steps on how to shorten blinds without removing them from the window.
Before you get started, gather your materials. You’ll need a measuring tape, a level, a pencil, a hacksaw, a drill, and some screws. If your blinds are made of wood or faux wood, you will also need a saw blade specifically designed for cutting these materials. Once you have everything you need, you’re ready to begin.
Measure the Blinds
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools: a tape measure, a pencil or pen, and a ruler or T-square. Determine the type of blinds you have; vertical or horizontal. Vertical blinds are hung from a track, while horizontal blinds are typically installed inside the window frame.
For vertical blinds, measure the length of the blind from the top of the headrail to the bottom of the lowest slat. Ensure the blind is fully extended before measuring. To measure the width, measure from the leftmost edge of the headrail to the right edge. If your vertical blinds have multiple panels, measure the width of each panel separately.
For horizontal blinds, measure the length from the top of the headrail to the bottom of the bottommost slat. To measure the width, measure from the outermost edge of the left-hand bracket to the outermost edge of the right-hand bracket. If your horizontal blinds have multiple slats, measure the length of one slat and multiply it by the total number of slats (including any valance or bottom rail).
Note that blinds are typically sold in standard sizes. It’s best to measure accurately to determine the closest standard size for your window. If your measurements fall between two standard sizes, it’s recommended to choose the larger size and trim the blinds to fit.
| Blind Type | Length Measurement | Width Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical Blinds | From top of headrail to bottom of lowest slat | From leftmost edge of headrail to rightmost edge |
| Horizontal Blinds | From top of headrail to bottom of bottommost slat | From outermost edge of left-hand bracket to outermost edge of right-hand bracket |
Determine the Amount to Shorten
Accurately determining the amount to shorten your blinds is crucial to achieve a professional finish. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide:
Measure the Position of the Blinds
Measure the distance from the bottom of the blind to the desired lower position. Note this measurement precisely, as it will guide how much fabric needs to be removed.
Choose the Cutting Point
The cutting point is typically located at the bottom hem or seam of the blind. Align a measuring tape or ruler along the desired lower position and locate the corresponding point on the hem or seam. This will be your cutting line.
Determine the Hem Allowance
When cutting the blinds, you need to factor in the hem allowance at the bottom. Typically, a hem allowance of 1-2 inches is recommended to ensure a neat and secure finish. Add this allowance to the measurement you obtained in step 1.
Create a Template (Optional)
To ensure precision, it’s helpful to create a template using a piece of thin cardboard or paper. Mark the cutting line and hem allowance on the template and use it as a guide when cutting the blinds.
| Measurement | Description |
|---|---|
| Distance from bottom of blind to desired lower position | Measured in inches |
| Hem allowance | Typically 1-2 inches |
| Total amount to shorten | Sum of the above two measurements |
Fold and Iron the Hem
Once you have cut the fabric to the desired length, it is time to fold and iron the hem. This will create a clean and finished edge that will help to prevent the fabric from fraying.
To fold the hem, start by folding the raw edge of the fabric over by about 1/2 inch. Then, fold the fabric over again by another 1/2 inch. Press the hem flat with an iron to create a crease.
To iron the hem, use a low heat setting and press the iron over the folded edge. Be sure to hold the iron in place for a few seconds to allow the fabric to set.
The following table provides a summary of the steps involved in folding and ironing the hem:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the raw edge of the fabric over by about 1/2 inch. |
| 2 | Fold the fabric over again by another 1/2 inch. |
| 3 | Press the hem flat with an iron to create a crease. |
| 4 | Iron the hem using a low heat setting and hold the iron in place for a few seconds to allow the fabric to set. |
Reattach the Hem Tape
5. With a sewing machine, carefully stitch through all layers along the folded edge, following the stitching line made in step 4. Use a strong thread and a zigzag stitch to ensure durability.
6. Iron the newly reattached hem tape to create a crisp and professional finish.
7. Measure and mark the desired location of the new blind brackets or hooks. Install them securely using appropriate hardware.
8. Hang the shortened blind on the brackets or hooks and check its operation. Adjust the tension of the cords or chains as necessary to ensure smooth movement.
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Warnings |
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Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when shortening blinds. |
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Be careful when working with sharp objects like scissors or tacks. |
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If you are uncomfortable performing any of the steps, it is recommended to seek professional assistance from a blind repair technician. |
Cut the Cords or Slats
To shorten blinds by cutting the cords or slats:
- Gather your materials: scissors, measuring tape, pencil, and a ladder if necessary.
- Measure the desired length of the blinds from the top of the headrail to the bottom of the slats.
- Mark the desired length on the cords or slats with the pencil.
- Cut the cords or slats at the marked length.
- Remove the excess cords or slats.
- Reattach the bottom rail to the blinds if necessary.
Cut the Bottom Slat
To shorten blinds by cutting the bottom slat:
- Gather your materials: scissors, a ruler or measuring tape, and a pencil.
- Measure the desired length of the blinds from the top of the headrail to the bottom of the slats.
- Mark the desired length on the bottom slat with the pencil, ensuring it’s symmetrical on both sides.
- Use the scissors to cut the bottom slat at the marked length.
- Remove the cut-off portion of the bottom slat.
Cut the Top Slat
To shorten blinds by cutting the top slat:
- Gather your materials: scissors, a ruler or measuring tape, a pencil, and a ladder if necessary.
- Measure the desired length of the blinds from the top of the headrail to the bottom of the slats.
- Mark the desired length on the top slat with the pencil, ensuring it’s symmetrical on both sides.
- Use the scissors to cut the top slat at the marked length.
- Remove the cut-off portion of the top slat.
- Reattach the top rail to the blinds if necessary.
Reinstall the Blinds
Once you have shortened the blinds, it’s time to reinstall them. Here’s how:
- Measure the window again and mark the length.
- Place the blinds in the window frame.
- Line up the top of the blinds with the mark you made in step 1.
- Secure the blinds to the window frame using the appropriate hardware.
- Test the blinds to make sure they operate smoothly.
8. Troubleshooting
If you have trouble shortening blinds, try the following troubleshooting tips:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Blinds are too short | Add a few more rows of fabric to the bottom of the blinds. |
| Blinds are too long | Remove a few rows of fabric from the bottom of the blinds. |
| Blinds are not level | Adjust the height of the blinds on each side until they are level. |
| Blinds are not operating smoothly | Make sure that the blinds are securely fastened to the window frame and that the cords are not tangled. |
Test the Blinds
Before you start cutting the cords, it’s crucial to test the blinds to ensure they are functioning correctly. Here’s a detailed explanation of how to test your blinds:
Step 1: Raise and Lower the Blinds
Hold the lift cord and gently raise the blinds up to the top of the window.
Step 2: Tilt the Slats
Use the tilt cord to adjust the angle of the slats. Ensure that the slats can be tilted to the desired angle without any resistance.
Step 3: Check for Smooth Operation
As you raise or lower the blinds, observe if the movement is smooth and does not require excessive force. There should be no snags or bumps during operation.
Step 4: Test the Tension
Grasp the bottom rail of the blinds and gently pull it down. The blinds should retract smoothly and come to a stop at the desired length.
Step 5: Examine the Cords
Inspect the lift and tilt cords for any visible damage or fraying. Replace any damaged cords to ensure safe operation.
Step 6: Test the Wand
If your blinds have a wand control, ensure that it can rotate the blinds open and closed smoothly.
Step 7: Test the Motorization
For motorized blinds, test the operation of the motor. The blinds should respond promptly to commands and operate smoothly.
Step 8: Check for Unwanted Movement
Ensure that the blinds do not move or rattle when the cords are not engaged.
Step 9: Identify Any Obstructions
Inspect the window frame, window sill, and surrounding area for any obstructions that may interfere with the operation of the blinds. If any obstacles are identified, move them or adjust the blinds to avoid interference.
Tips for Professional Results
1. Determine the Desired Length
Measure the desired shortness of your blinds and mark the new length with a pencil.
2. Remove Shades from Hardware
Detach the blinds from their headrail or mounting brackets.
3. Lay Blinds Flat
Spread the blinds out evenly on a large, flat surface.
4. Identify Bottom Hem
Locate the bottom hem of the blinds, where the fabric is folded over.
5. Remove Stitching
Carefully unpick or cut the stitching that holds the hem in place.
6. Measure and Fold New Hem
Measure the desired length of the new hem and fold the fabric over twice, securing it with temporary pins.
7. Iron Hem
Iron the folded hem to create a crisp crease.
8. Re-stitch Hem
Re-sew the hem using a blind stitch or invisible seam to maintain the original aesthetic.
9. Check Length
Hang the blinds back on the headrail or mounting brackets and check that the length is accurate.
10. Finishing Touches
Consider the following additional steps for a more refined finish:
- Use weights or heavy-duty clips to ensure the blinds hang straight.
- Clean the blinds with a vacuum cleaner or damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
- Steam the blinds with an iron or steamer to eliminate any creases or wrinkles.
- Gather your materials. You will need a measuring tape, a pencil, a hacksaw, a drill, and some screws.
- Measure the blinds. Measure the length of the blinds from the top of the headrail to the bottom of the bottom slat. Write down the measurement.
- Mark the blinds. Use a pencil to mark the length you want to shorten the blinds by on the headrail. Mark the same length on the bottom slat.
- Cut the blinds. Use a hacksaw to cut the blinds at the marks you made. Be sure to cut through both the headrail and the bottom slat.
- Drill holes for the screws. Drill holes for the screws in the headrail and the bottom slat, about 1 inch from the ends. Be sure to drill the holes large enough for the screws to fit through.
- Screw the blinds together. Insert the screws through the holes in the headrail and the bottom slat. Tighten the screws until the blinds are securely attached.
How To Shorten Blinds
If your blinds are too long, you can shorten them yourself with a few simple tools. Here’s how to do it:
People Also Ask About How To Shorten Blinds
How much does it cost to shorten blinds?
The cost to shorten blinds varies depending on the type of blinds, the size of the blinds, and the complexity of the job. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $20 and $50 per blind.
Can I shorten blinds myself?
Yes, you can shorten blinds yourself with a few simple tools. However, it is important to be careful when cutting the blinds, as you do not want to damage them.
How do I shorten vertical blinds?
To shorten vertical blinds, you will need to remove the slats from the headrail. Once the slats are removed, you can cut them to the desired length. Be sure to cut the slats evenly, so that they will hang straight.
