How to shorten venetian blinds
If you recently purchased venetian blinds for your home but they’re too long for your windows, you may be wondering how to shorten them without having to spend more money on custom blinds. Fortunately, with a few simple steps, you can easily shorten venetian blinds yourself and have them fit perfectly in your windows.
The first step is to measure the length that you want your blinds to be. Using a tape measure, carefully measure the distance from the top of the blinds to where you want them to end. Make sure to measure each blind individually, as windows may have different lengths.
Next, gather the necessary tools needed for shortening your venetian blinds. These typically include a pair of sharp scissors, a pencil or marker, a ruler or straight edge, and a flat surface to work on. Having all the tools ready will make the process smoother and more efficient.
Once you have your measurements and tools prepared, carefully remove the venetian blinds from the window brackets. Lay them flat on a secure surface, making sure that they are spread out evenly and not tangled. Start at the bottom of the blinds and mark the measurement you took earlier as the new bottom length.
Step-By-Step Guide for Shortening Venetian Blinds
Adjusting the length of your Venetian blinds can help ensure a perfect fit for your window. If your blinds are too long and unwanted slats are dragging on the floor, you can easily shorten them using a few simple steps.
Materials You Will Need
- Tape measure
- Scissors
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
Step 1: Measure the Correct Length
To determine how much to shorten your blinds, measure the desired height from the top of the headrail to the bottom rail. Take note of this measurement before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Remove the Bottom Rail
Using a screwdriver, remove the end brackets securing the bottom rail. Carefully take off the rail and set it aside for later use.
Step 3: Remove the Excess Slats
Counting from the bottom, remove the number of slats equivalent to the height you measured in step 1. It is essential to ensure that you remove slats evenly from both sides for a balanced look. Use a pair of pliers to detach the cords from the slats and remove them.
Step 4: Trim the Ladder Cords
Examine the ladder cords, which hold the slats together. Cut the cords just above the bottommost slat. Be careful not to cut the lift cords, which raise and lower the blinds.
Step 5: Reattach the Bottom Rail
Slide the ladder cords through the holes on the bottom rail and reattach the rail to the blinds using the end brackets. Make sure it is securely in place.
Step 6: Reinstall and Test
Carefully reinstall your newly shortened blinds back onto the window. Use a screwdriver to resecure the brackets and ensure they are firmly in place. Test the blinds by raising and lowering them to confirm they are working correctly and are the correct height.
Step 7: Make Final Adjustments
If the blinds are still too long, repeat steps 3-6 until you achieve the desired length. Remember to remove an equal number of slats from both sides while maintaining a balanced look.
| Caution: | Shortening Venetian blinds may void the manufacturer’s warranty, so proceed with caution. Additionally, if you are not confident in your skills or do not have the necessary tools, consider consulting a professional. We take no responsibility for any damages or injuries that may occur while following this guide. |
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By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily shorten your Venetian blinds and achieve a custom fit for your window.
Measuring and Marking the Desired Length
To begin the process of shortening your venetian blinds, you will need to measure the desired length of the blinds.
1. Gather the necessary tools
Before you start measuring, make sure you have the following tools:
- Tape measure
- Pencil or marker
- Scissors or hacksaw
2. Assess the blinds
Take a close look at your venetian blinds. You will likely find two or three horizontal ladder strings along the length of the blinds. These strings hold the slats in place. You will need to untie or cut the ladder strings in order to shorten the blinds to your desired length.
3. Determine the desired length
Decide how much you would like to shorten the blinds. Measure the current length of the blinds from the headrail (the metal or plastic bar at the top that holds the blinds) to the bottom of the blinds. Subtract the desired length from the current length to determine how much needs to be removed.
4. Mark the blinds
Using the tape measure, measure from the bottom of the blinds up to the desired length, and mark this measurement with a pencil or marker. Make sure to measure and mark each ladder string along the length of the blinds.
Note: Depending on your blinds, there may be a plastic plug or cap covering the ends of the ladder strings. You will need to remove this cap before cutting the strings.
Once you have marked each ladder string, double check your measurements to ensure accuracy.
Removing Excess Louvers and Ladder String
When shortening Venetian blinds, it’s essential to remove any excess louvers and ladder string to ensure proper functioning and aesthetic appeal. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Start by determining the desired length of the blinds. Measure the window frame or the area where the blinds will be installed to get accurate measurements.
- Identify the excess louvers and ladder string that need to be removed. These are the components that contribute to the length of the blinds and need to be adjusted accordingly.
- Using a pair of scissors or a ladder string cutter, carefully cut away the ladder string at the desired new length. Make sure to leave enough thread for reattaching the bottom rail and securing the blinds later on.
- Once the ladder string has been cut, untie or remove any knots securing the bottom rail to the ladder string. This will allow you to detach the bottom rail from the blinds.
- Remove the excess louvers by sliding them out from the ladder string or using a ladder string cutter to cut them away. Be cautious not to damage or fray the ladder string during this process.
- After removing the excess louvers, reattach the bottom rail by putting it back onto the ladder string. Retie or secure the knots to ensure the bottom rail remains in place.
- Trim the ladder string to the desired length, leaving enough thread for tilting and adjusting the blinds in the future.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to properly shorten the Venetian blinds by removing excess louvers and ladder string. Remember to work carefully and take your time to avoid any damage to the blinds.
Reattaching the Bottom Rail and Finishing Touches
Once you have adjusted the length of the venetian blinds to the desired size, it is time to reattach the bottom rail and add some finishing touches. Follow these steps to complete the process:
1. Hold the bottom rail up to the newly shortened blinds and make sure it fits properly. If it is too long, carefully trim it down to the right size ensuring to keep it level.
2. Once the bottom rail is the correct length, use a small amount of strong adhesive or a hot glue gun to secure it to the blinds. Apply the adhesive evenly along the bottom edge of the blinds and press the bottom rail firmly against it.
3. Allow the adhesive to dry completely before testing the operation of the blinds. This will ensure that the bottom rail is securely attached and will not come loose when the blinds are raised or lowered.
4. Finally, give the blinds a thorough clean and dust off any residue from the cutting and attachment process. This will give your venetian blinds a fresh and polished look.
By following these steps, you can successfully shorten your venetian blinds and achieve a professional-looking finish. Enjoy your newly customized blinds!
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