If there is one thing that can’t be ignored by homeowners, it has to be home decor. Whether we want to admit it or not, we make judgments about people as soon as we enter their home. Guests to your do the same thing when they come to visit your home. So, what conclusions are they drawing as soon as they visit?

If there is one thing that can’t be ignored by homeowners, it has to be home decor. Whether we want to admit it or not, we make judgments about people as soon as we enter their home. Guests to your do the same thing when they come to visit your home. So, what conclusions are they drawing as soon as they visit?

A well designed home that gives the feeling of relaxation and comfort is a home that is appreciated. One of the overall designing aspects of your home is its window coverings. For this reason, many homeowners prefer the use of wooden window blinds to create an earthy welcoming environment.

 
First and foremost, you must familiarize yourself with what a window blind is. It is actually one of the design elements for your home; it is versatile and provides an additional artistic touch to your windows. Window blinds are made from several materials like metal, wood, vinyl, fabric, and cane. No matter what material is used, they all have the same function. Window blinds can be used alone or you can incorporate other treatments. If your blinds have severe lines, you can add valance or curtains to achieve a soft and polished look. Any room can have window blinds. It’s all up to the homeowner whether he uses a vertical or a horizontal blind; it can also be small and/or large. You can choose subtle colored blinds which you can use as a decorative touch to the window or merely as a functional tool.

If you are interested in wood window blinds, you may want to consider the more budget friendly faux wood window blinds. They give the same stunning appearance as wood blinds while saving you money. They have the appearance of being a true wood product and they are not easily spotted as being anything other than wood.

Wood is a very popular choice among homeowners, however, for your kitchen or bathroom you can’t use wood window blinds because they can swell, crack, and warp. Soon enough, they will be useless. So remember not to put wood window blinds in humid areas.

Faux wood blinds are fashioned by either vinyl or a combination of hardwood and vinyl. These beautiful blinds have the appearance of real wood and are perfect for use in areas of high humidity.

They are easy on your wallet with a savings of about 30% compared to wood blinds. However, they must be cared for with an occasional dusting and possibly cleaning with water in a tub so that your faux wood blinds can offer you years of great looks and service.

There are many different styles and sizes of faux wood blinds and they are available for customization to enhance your window dcor perfectly.

Installing faux wood blinds is also not a problem because you can do it yourself. You should first choose whether you’re going to put the brackets in or out of your window. The sizes of faux wood blinds available in the market are fit for inside facings so better get a much bigger blind for the outside facing. Set the brackets in place and slide the head rail of the blind. Insert the covering that will keep the blinds from falling and finally, attach the ‘magic’ wand to open or close your blinds.

Faux wood window blinds are great for your home at a reasonable price.

 By Christopher Smith  Published: 6/25/2007
Visit us for more information on black faux wood blinds, bathroom window treatments and ideas for interesting window treatments.

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Discover the different kinds of blinds, how to select the best window blinds for your needs and where to find them.

There are a few varieties of blinds for wood windows to select from, depending on the measurement and structure of the window, as well as the room and its general decorating style. Window blinds serve a number of uses, besides insulation and privacy, they also add visual appeal to our living area.

Wooden windows can fit into practically any type of window treatment, including genuine wooden blinds, faux wood, those with metal slats, fabric and vertical blinds.

For larger windows, patio and sliding doors, vertical blinds are wonderful for maintaining your privacy as well as for allowing in light. They can also be installed within the frame, or over top of the window glass.

For wood windows that face the sun, purchase blinds that are fade-resistant, or room-darkening blinds. Authentic wood blinds are an alternative that provide warmth and comfort, with some having a cloth tape option to add additional color.

Although it is popular for most styles of decorating, one of the downsides of blinds for wood windows is that many types of blinds are troublesome and require drilling a few holes into the wood for the brackets. If you redecorate regularly or may be changing window treatments again in the near future, the extra holes may be a problem. Besides running out of room on the wood for other brackets for blinds as well as any sheers or drapes that are also being hung, the wood may split from the extra pressure of the blinds.

The general cost of blinds for wood windows will depend on the type of blind used, the size of the window and how many windows will need covering. Of course the larger the window, the higher the price. However, for one extra wide window, consider using two blinds of equal size as opposed to one, along with additional window treatments such as sheers or drapes so it will appear as if only one blind is hung.

For the budget minded, faux wood blinds work well with any size or style of wooden window, as do mini blinds, which are usually made from metal alloy, or a durable vinyl blend. Metal mini blinds are more expensive than those created from heavy plastics and vinyl, although they fare well in high traffic areas and are usually made from spring-tempered aluminum.

Aluminum blinds for wood windows come in different thickness gauges and a rainbow of colors. The one inch size is a in demand choice for aluminum mini blinds, or even the half inch micro blind that’s commonly used in bathrooms or kitchens, while the two inch Venetian style is used most often in living and dining spaces.

John Roberts is the author WindowBlindsArchive.com. Visit his web site for more free tips on selecting the right type of windows blinds for your home.

By John Roberts    Published: 11/22/2007

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Discount window blinds are widely available on the Internet and also offline at furniture stores and dcor outlets. Of course the price of window coverings greatly varies depending on where you buy them.

Probably the best place to buy inexpensive window shades is in your local Chinatown. This especially true if you are looking for blinds made of rice paper. These transparent types of blinds come in just about every color of the rainbow. You can also buy rice paper blinds that have been hand painted or decorated with symbols or motifs. Buying blinds in an ethnic market is usually a lot cheaper than trying to buy them in a specialty boutique. You can also find these types of rice paper blinds for sale on the Internet. They are a mainstay of almost every type of discount window blinds outlet.

 
You can also buy window shades made out of specialty paper that is embedded with glitter or threads. Once again your best bet for finding these is in China Town or in a Japanese paper store. They are much more expensive in the retail chain markets. You can also find these types of window shades on the Internet in online specialty Japanese paper boutiques or on any of the big auction sites.

It is hard to find Venetian blinds that are really cheap so if you want discount window blinds you might have to shop for these at antique stores, second hand stores or at content sales. Of course it will be mainly the big, bulky corporate looking Venetian blinds with large plastic slats that will mainly be found at this type of sale. Another drawback of buying used Venetian blinds is that you don’t exactly have a choice of dimensions. Also a lot of them hang crooked and are quite dirty. No matter how stylish your Venetian blinds are they are not beautiful if they don’t work properly and trying to fix broken used ones can be a real hassle. You can also buy used, new and discount Venetian blinds on the big auction sites as well.

Fortunately the newer, lighter aluminum blinds are often offered up for sale at discount window covering outlets. If you can find these at a bargain they are a good deal because they are light, easy to clean and look just right with some of the more modern styles of interior decor. Anodized aluminum blinds also tend to harbor less dirt and dust. Sometimes you can only find these discount window coverings in off beat or undesirable shades. If this is the case remember that you can always take them home and spray paint them another color. However painting Venetian blinds can be a lot of work so make sure they are cheap enough to be worth your trouble!

Manufacturers are now creating Venetian blinds in all kinds of interesting colors and textures by painting, coating or anodizing the slats. The dullest Venetian blinds that you could buy would be the nineties style black kind with narrow slats or the seventies style heavy cream colored ones with wide slats. However these are always the styles that seem to be on sale!

Osmundo Bernabe invites you to BeautifulWindowBlinds. Here we provide tips on Window Coverings and Window Treatment ideas.

By Osmundo Bernabe     Published: 11/13/2006

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Top down bottom up roman shades are a stylish solution to letting in light but still keep your privacy. Learn how to make top down bottom up roman shades plus how to convert your existing roman shades.

Roman shades are terrific for light control, privacy, and insulation. Not to mention they look very stylish on your window.

The most common way you see roman shades is they are installed at the top of your window… and when the pull cords are pulled… the bottom of the roman shade pleats up to let light in… and to allow you to see out. This also allows people to see in!

What if you wanted a roman shade on your window… you wanted the light in… you wanted to see out… but you still wanted privacy?

That’s where the top down bottom up roman shade comes into play.

A top down bottom up roman shade is a roman shade that has 2 sets of lift cords. One set raises and lowers the bottom edge of the roman shade. And the other set of lift cords raises and lowers the top edge of the roman shade.

Here’s a perfect example of when you would use a top down bottom up roman shade. Say it’s a beautiful day outside. A perfect day to have the windows open. But the window you want open faces the street and you don’t want people to see in… but you still want light to shine in your room.

Raise the bottom of your roman shade a few inches to let the nice air in from the outside. Lower the top edge of the roman shade about a foot to let the sun in. And the rest of the roman shade provides privacy! Genius!

You can special order this style of Romans shade or you can make it yourself and save big bucks! In fact, you can even convert your existing roman shade into a top down bottom roman shade.

Let me explain how the installation would be so that you can have control raising and lowering either the bottom edge of your roman shade or the top edge of your roman shade.

You need 2 sets of roman shade hardware. So, if you are going to use a cord lock… you’ll need 2 cord locks. If you are planning on installing a roman shade bead chain clutch system, then you need 2 systems. If you plan on just using 2 cord cleats, then you need 2.

Basically, you need one set of lift cords and hardware to operate the top edge of the roman shade and the other set of lift cords and hardware to operate the bottom edge of your roman shade.

To operate

the bottom edge of your roman shade, you would install your roman shade normally. Nothing changes here. So, if you are installing a roman shade with a cord lock, you would still tie your lift cords to the bottom shade rings, thread the lift cords up through the rings and over to your cord lock.

Operating the top edge is the big difference. First, the top edge of your roman shade is no longer attached to the top dust board. You need to hem it neatly with a casing that will hold a sturdy rod. It can be a fiberglass rod, a steel rod… something strong that won’t bend in the center from the weight of the roman shade.

Install a second cord lock on the opposite side of the dust board. With new lift cords, tie a lift cor

d to each of the top rings. Thread the lift cords through the screw eyes and over to the second cord lock.

And that’s it!

If you already have a roman shade that you want to convert into a top down bottom up roman shade… simply detach the top edge from the dust board. Hem the top edge and insert a rod into the new top casing. And then install and thread the second set of lift cords for the top edge operation.

Click here to learn how to make roman shades with detailed step by step video tutorials and illustrated instructions.

 By Jennifer Thoden     Published: 12/6/200

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Looking for a great look for your windows that is sound, sensible, and draws the eye?  Window blinds can be the answer for you!  Blinds come in both vertical and horizontal styles, and are a great way to provide privacy while bringing beauty to your home or office!

Custom window blinds have become very popular.  Some may think that a custom window covering is too expensive, be sure to check out your sources before you right it off.  A custom blind for your home need not break the bank, and will be sure to give you the added touch you need to achieve that special look you are creating.

Both vertical and horizontal window blinds work the same way, they are just attached to the window differently.  Following the manufacturers installation instructions is usually simple and easy to do.  Both applications can create unique lighting and viewing options.  Both are effective in blocking out direct sunlight and providing privacy. 

The vertical blind has a slat overlap when closed to prevent any light from coming through.  The blind can be rotated to allow a little or a lot of light to enter your room.  A chain or a cord will help keep your blind in place and rotating well.  Some are wieghted at the bottom to keep them in place.

The vertical blind is available in numerous widths and materials.  Some are fabric based, while others are vinyl or wooden.  The wider the slat, the less slats are required to span your window or door.  Some are patterned or even embossed to give added alure.  With such a wide variety, choosing the right one for you is easier than ever.

Similar in many ways to the vertical blind is the horizontal window blind.  These are available in a wide variety of styles and colors.  They are manufactured today using many different types of materials–wood vinyl, metal, faux wood, cloth, paper, and on and on the list goes.  If your creative mind can imagine it, someone somewhere has probably selling it today!

Horizontal blinds are attached at the sides of the window frame.  They also have a wand that allows you to adjust the amount and direction of any incoming light.  They create the perfect filter, along with providing privacy and can save you mega bucks on your heating and cooling bills.  They are a great insulator as well as adding beauty and design to your rooms.

Either style of blind is appropriate for bathrooms, kitchens, family rooms, bedrooms, and offices.  They also work well on garage windows and other outside buildings.  They are easy to keep clean and maintain.  A simple wipe down with a damp rag will do the job.  If they become extra soiled, a simple ‘dunk bath’ with warm water and mild detergent in your tub will do the trick.  Most blinds are impervious to moisture, heat and sunligh, and will be lasting and durable for many years to come.  Consider the look you want before deciding on horizontal or vertical window blinds.

 
Along with a wide variety of styles and colors, blinds today come with additional features.  Some can be operated by remote control. This is handy for the infirm or energy conscious individual, but is a wonderful feature for the very high or hard to reach windows.  Another feature offered today is that of a safety issue.  Pets and children have been known to get caught in the cords of blinds, so this is another consideration when choosing the right blind for you.  Choosing the right material for each window or door can be important as some have sharper edges than others and other safety issues.  There is such a variety today that you will be able to find what is best for your custom window blind job.

Whether your are a traditionalist or a wave -maker, you can find blinds for your needs as so many styles and colors and materials are available today.  The custom made blind will give you everything you are looking for, in just the right size.  A custom window covering can add beauty, ambiance, and style to your office or home, so start cruising the web today to find that perfect touch to finish off your perfect room!

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Every window in your home has some type of window covering, and after some time goes by, they can get dirty and all dusty. Obviously, their original purpose, which was to provide beauty and comfort in your home, is no longer being served. In addition to looking terrible, dirty window blinds can pose a health concern. As such, if you havent in a long time, its important to consider cleaning your blinds immediately. The good news is, cleaning window blinds is not really hard if you only know how to go about the process.

Window blinds are made up of different materials. They can be found as metal blinds, wood blinds, cane, fabric, and others. How you clean your window blinds will depend on what material your blinds are made of. Therefore, its key to follow all the cleaning instructions properly so that the quality of the blinds is not affected and its useful life is preserved.

The good news is, its not as difficult a task as it seems. Given the health implications of not cleaning your window treatments on a regular basis, this task should be given a higher priority than it has in the past.

To help you in your cleaning task, read on for some helpful tips:

Aluminum Mini Blinds
For your aluminum mini blinds, use ordinary clean and soft dust cloths. You can also use dust cloths which are chemically treated as well as the brush attachments of your vacuum cleaner. You may also find other household aids that you can use, which act in a similar manner. Make sure that you clean your aluminum blinds regularly so that dust is easily brushed off. Since the slats have a painted and smooth surface, cleaning it is quite easy.

If you want to use the vacuum for your aluminum blinds, use the brush attachment and make sure that you tilt the slats up first, and then down in order to reach the top and entire bottom surfaces.

You can also wash your mini blinds using a mild detergent and a damp sponge or cloth. Never use hot water. If you want to take down the blinds, do so and wash them in a tub of cold/warm water.

Wood Window Blinds
If you have wood window blinds at home, it will require extra care, especially if its true wood blinds. You should not wash the wood blind because even humid weather can discolor or warp the blinds. The slats of wood blinds are also soft and dust can be easily removed by brushing them. You can use soft dust cloths and vacuum cleaner in cleaning wood blinds.

By using the brush attachment on the vacuum cleaner, cleaning window blinds is very easy. However, for those individuals who don’t own a vacuum cleaner, you can try your old socks or cotton gloves in wiping the blinds’ slats. You can also use your small paintbrush to dust the window blinds’ slats. If the dust can’t be removed easily, then use a damp cloth and wipe them off.

Some are hesitant to take down their blinds because the strings may rot. If this is your problem, then soak your window blinds in vinegar. The blinds should be open to prevent slats from sticking together. Leave them for about thirty minutes. After the designated time, rinse your blinds thoroughly and hang the blinds outside. Wait until the blinds are dry and then wipe the blinds’ slats with fabric softener. This way, dust build-up can be prevented.

Do yourself a favor, and clean your window blinds regularly. Not only does it make it easier, its also ensures a healthy living environment for your family. With the right tools, you can clean your blinds in less than an hour, all the while prolonging the life of your window blinds.

Find out more about wood window blinds, custom roman shades and window blind skin at CoveringYourWindows

By Christopher Smith  Published: 3/7/2007

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Windows are a part of every home all over the world. They give you light and a view on the outside world when you are inside your home. Sometimes however, windows can look plain and boring. To remedy this, people use different kinds of window accessories to enhance their interior decor and also provide extra privacy in their homes. A popular type of window covering are window blinds. Blinds come in a variety of materials, including metal. 

Windows offer a means of lighting our homes while letting us look at the world outside. We must admit that windows on their own can appear very boring and plain. As a result, many people use different types of window coverings to enhance their appearance as well as provide much needed privacy while adding an elegant atmosphere to any room. One type of window covering that provides privacy as well as elegance are window blinds. Window blinds also offer you total control of how much light is allowed to enter a room. Window blinds can be made from an assortment of materials, including metal.

Usually, the metal used for this kind of blind is aluminum. It is light in weight and it is cheaper than other metals without rusting as quickly. Many homes and offices today use aluminum window blinds to provide them with the perfect blend of privacy and elegance. Another great benefit of metal window blinds is that they are cheaper than blinds made from other materials. The simplicity of aluminum window blinds is the main point of their elegance. They are considered to be classy yet simple blinds that will enhance the look of the room and also provide you with enough privacy in your home.

 
The great thing about metal window blinds is that they are widely available in different colors. There are also different window blind designs where when the window blind is completely closed, you will see a large design. The design can also be custom made to suit your taste. For example, if you like watching the sunset, you can get a sunset design which is visible when the blinds are completely closed.

Since there is such a wonderful array of colors to choose from you will be able to match the colors of your walls as well as any other decoration in the room.

Aluminum is more lightweight than other metals however; it is heavy enough to stay closed in a breeze. Metal window blinds are more durable and offer many years of use, unlike plastic window blinds. Actually, you are more likely to experience trouble with the mechanical system of a metal window blind, before experiencing any problems with the aluminum slats.

Today there are many metal window blind manufacturers who sell their blinds through the internet, where your window blind purchase is as easy as a click of a button. Generally, these websites offer systematic instructions of how to measure the windows that you want to install blinds on. Then the measurements are sent to the manufacturers, who then deliver and normally install the blinds themselves.

If you are looking for window coverings, you should consider the purchase of metal window blinds since they are not only budget friendly but also offer privacy and elegant beauty to your interior world.

Visit us for more information on levelor wood blinds, bamboo window treatment and wood blinds.

By Christopher Smith  Published:  6/14/2007

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If you’ve ever started picking out window treatments for your home, you know there’s a lot of terminology out there: blinds, shades, shutters, inside mounts, outside mounts, swags. But what does it all mean? And how do all these things get you the window treatments of your dreams? Read on to find out.

So you want new window treatments. But what’s the difference between shades and blinds, and how should you choose one over the other? Shutters? Curtains? So many options can get confusing.

Help is here. In this article, you will find a quick guide to help you get started with some of the key terminology used in the window treatment industry, along with how each term plays a role in the style and look of your home.

 
Window treatments: The Hard and Soft of It

Window treatments are often classified as "hard treatments" or "soft treatments". Hard treatments generally refer to mini-blinds, vertical blinds, horizontal blinds, cellular shades, wood blinds, roller shades, and shutters. Soft treatments tend to refer to window treatments that are "softer" to the touch and the eye, with more of a focus on the fabric, like draperies, curtains, and valances. However, the rules for each are not hard and fast and some window treatments may fall somewhere in between.

Blinds

Blinds are window treatments that have adjustable slats, which can be angled open or closed to control the amount of view-through. These slats can be made from wood, faux wood, fabric, plastic, metal, or aluminum. In addition to adjustable slats, blinds also have the ability to be raised from top to bottom or side to side, depending on whether they are vertical or horizontal in orientation. With their adjustable slats, window blinds are the natural choice for rooms where privacy and light control are of the utmost importance.

Shades

Shades are made with fabric, sometimes with pleats, as in cellular or pleated shades, and sometimes with a drapery fabric, as in a Roman shade. They can be raised and lowered to control the light in the room, but without the adjustable slats of blinds. There are a variety of shades available, and some of the most popular include:

Cellular shades:

These are unique fabric shades constructed from honeycomb-shaped cells that insulate windows with pockets of trapped air. These honeycomb cells improve energy efficiency, but are only visible from the side, giving the shade a clean, crisp look of cascading pleats.

Roller shades:

These shades are made of vinyl or fabric and are attached to spring rollers, which allow them to be pulled shut or rolled open.

Roman shades:

These are fabric shades that fold neatly to the top when drawn open. A classic, or "teardrop-style" Roman shade offers overlapping folds when the shade is lowered, while a contemporary, or "flat-panel" Roman shade has no folds when lowered.

Shades are ideal for highlighting the transition between your home’s exterior and interior spaces. There are also a number of shade options that enable shades to take on insulating and blackout properties, making them ideal for energy efficiency and complete room-darkening. They differe from blinds because they can either expose or cover the window’s view, but without adjustable slats, there is no "in-between" in terms of controlling privacy and light.

 
Sheer Window Shading

While not all window treatments fall into the shade or blind categories (think shutters, which we’ll cover later), some window treatments do both, like sheer blinds. Sheer blinds use either horizontal or vertical fabric vanes, and sandwich them between two layers of soft, knitted sheers. This provides them with the adjustable light and privacy control of blinds, and the soft feel of a shade. Sheer blinds give you privacy control, while allowing light to filter into your home. So choose these blinds for rooms that can benefit from maximizing the natural sunlight.

Swags, Curtains, and Draperies

These terms refer to soft or sheer fabrics that can be used in a variety of ways. Swags, or scarves, can be draped over the top of a window frame, dressing up the window. They can be used in conjunction with a window shade or blind, or by themselves. Curtains and drapes are fabrics that are available in a wide assortment of patterns, textures, and colors, and they can also be used standalone or in combination with a hard window treatment. The fabrics in swags, curtains, and draperies will soften the look of any window, or offer it an accent that it may not otherwise have. Choose sheer draperies in rooms where you want privacy, but sunlight is limited, as they will let the most amount of light in when closed.

Shutters

Shutters are more architecturally-complex than shades or blinds. They do not have any strings, and the louver blades cannot be pulled up to the top, as in blinds. Instead, the louvers sit on a panel that swings open on hinges, much like a door. The louvers themselves rotate open and closed to control privacy and light settings. Shutters can be made of wood, polymer wood blends, fabric, glass, or metal. Many people choose shutters for the maximum privacy that they afford, as well as their ability to shade a room from the rays of the sun completely. Shutters can also add a rustic or an elegant touch to any room, due to their architectural beauty. Shutter louvers are typically wider than blind slats, providing better view-through, as well.

Cornices or valances

From wood to silk flower garland, cornices and valances are placed over unsightly window treatment hardware to add beauty and continuity to your window. Not only do cornices and valances hide hardware, they can also be expertly placed above the window casing to make the ceiling look taller.

Now that we’ve covered some of the basic window treatment types, you’ve got the fundamentals covered. Next up: 6 Questions to Ask Yourself When Choosing Window Treatments. Check it out on Buzzle, or visit www.blindcrafter.com/kristinasdesignstudio.cfm.

By Stacey Wiktorek  Published:  10/12/2007

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An elegant touch to any home or apartment is the faux wood window blind.  As with all window treatments, there are many factors to consider.  A few are listed below.

Faux Wood Window Blinds – What are they?

Faux wood window blinds  (pronounced ‘foe’ wood) are blinds that look like wood, but have greater durability and cost less than wooden window blinds.  Constructed from poly vinyl chloride or from a high caliber PVC.  They are created with the wood look, and are beautiful, colorful, and ‘grained’ as wood is.  Since they are not actually wood, faux wood window blinds do not crack or fade with time and work well in places with high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens.  They are also immune to the wear and tear that extreme temperatures can cause.  They are immune to the fading and problems caused on wood by direct sunlight.  Overall, there isn’t much to say against faux wood in a blind.

A number of other features make the faux wood window blind ideal in most cases. 
The fact that they are lower in price than wood is a good place to start.  Why spend more than necessary to achieve the look you want?  Other than very close scrutiny, they look and feel like wooden window blinds do, but without the cost.

In addition to saving money, these blinds are easy to care for.  A simple damp rag will do the trick.  If, by chance, you need a heavier cleaning (oily residue in kitchens is an example), some warm water and detergent in a tub works wonders.  Loosely roll the blind and swish it around in the water.  Leave it alone for half and hour and then rinse it well and lay out to dry before rehanging.  A wooden blind would never do well with any type of water, whether the simple wipe down or the immersion cleaning listed above.  Faux wood window blinds don’t warp with moisture or weather.

These blinds are created with the homeowner or business owner in mind.  Many shades and styles are now being manufactured today.  If your home or office is styled in oak, then match your blinds with an oak finish.  Love the cherry wood look?  There are a number of faux wood blinds in the cherry finish that you can choose from.  The variety is endless.  These blinds also come in numerous styles, from narrow slats to wider ones, from horizontal to vertical.  Some blinds can be created for round windows or specialty areas.  If you can visualize it, someone has probably manufactured it already!

Finding the right blind for your window needs is simple online.  Most manufacturers have websites that show you the vast array of their wares.  You can view these at home at your leisure and save the trip to the store.  Decide whether you want to hang your blinds inside the window frame or above it.  Most sites also walk you through the correct way to measure your window, and all other important issues.  

Installation of your new faux wood window blinds need not be a daunting prospect.  Have a friend help you hold the blind in place, along with the brackets.  With a fine pencil, mark the window frame where the brackets should be installed.  Lower the blind and install the brackets according to the manufacturers instructions.  Then simply slide the blind onto the bracket, snaping the cover in place.  Lastly, hang the wand that allows you to rotate the angle of the blind.  Finished!  Your blinds are ready to enjoy!

Choosing a faux wood mini blind for your window is a sound, sensible decision in todays plentiful market and will make a beautiful addition to any room of your choice.  Buy faux wood mini blinds today and save money now and later!

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At one time, curtain rods were used for only one purpose; hanging curtains. Today they are much more decorative than utilitarian and are themselves an important design feature in many homes. Today’s curtain rods are much more sophisticated and elegant than those of yester year.

Rather than being mere metal or wooden sticks upon which we hang curtains and drapes, curtain rods are quickly evolving into pieces of art in their own right.

Wooden curtain rods are often made to look much more elegant than in the past. Many of these rods are crafted by hand and desired to showcase specific features of the wood. Many of them have designs sculpted into the wood and are finished with varnish in order to accent and protect the wood. This means you can find either Victorian wooden curtain rods or those that would fit with a much more casual western decor- all made from good quality wood.

Additionally, the strength and durability of metal curtain rods is no longer reserved for simple metal sticks. Consumers are now provided with many more choices when it comes to choosing the materials their curtain rods are made of. In addition to various woods, there is also the option of many metals including: chrome, brass, graphite, and wrought iron.

With so many choices, manufacturers are rushing to develop beautiful designs that can be used many ways in order to best compliment the beauty of your curtains. You can even use rods to ‘dress up’ drab or ordinary curtains.

In addition to innovations in the look and design of shower curtains, the installation of curtain rods has also evolved into a much less complicate process. You can install curtain rods on most interior surfaces of your home. No matter what style of home you have or your choice of decor there is a curtain rod that will suit your style and your curtains. 

 Curtain rods do not only differ according to design and structure, they also come in many different sizes and shapes. As a result, it is important to measure your windows before purchasing rods.

There are a few things you should really consider before purchasing curtain rods:

1) Your Windows. You must measure your windows, each and every one of them, in order to make sure you are buying the correct size curtain rod. You will want to measure the outside of your window where you will actually be hanging your curtains.

2) Your Curtains. You will want to be sure that not only the type of material in your curtain rods will compliment your curtains but also that the color, stain, or design of your rods will look good with your curtains.

3) Strength of the Curtain Rod. This is very important if you plan to hang heavy drapes on your curtain rods. You will also want to make sure that the supporting devices are also quite sturdy in this situation.

4) Your Budget. The newer curtain rods do not necessarily come cheap. It is important to remember however that you can often find great knock offs of the expensive brands and styles for a fraction of the cost at discount stores. While curtain rods can add great design features to your dcor you shouldn’t spend the vast majority of your decorating budget on your curtain rods.

When purchasing curtain rods, keep all of these things in mind and you should be able to buy nice curtain rods for your home that will have an impressive impact on how much you enjoy your space as well as how others view it.

BY  christopher Smith   Published :  11/22/2006

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Arched windows are becoming accepted accents for many modern homes. These small, semi-circle windows are commonly seen above doors to allow more natural sunlight to enter your home. Arched windows add an artistic touch to a home’s design and more and more new people are installing these rather than traditional, straight window frames, creating a massive interest for arched window blinds.

Blinds for arched windows are custom made to the different window sizes and will blend with most designs of window blinds. Just like all window blinds, those created for arched windows are available in heaps of styles, colors and sizes.

Types of Window Blinds for Arched Windows

– Pleated Arched Blinds are available in many colors, including soft neutrals as well as brilliant, modern blues, greens and reds. These blinds for arched windows are beautiful with a posh look.

– Wooden arched blinds offer a more permanent window treatment option for your arched windows. Wood blinds usually have individual slats that can be moved to redirect light and are more expensive than other types of blinds for arched windows.

– Cellular arched shades are greatly fashionable because of their fine look and ability to block direct sunlight without stopping all natural light. These window blinds are also available in many colors and sizes, complementing traditional cellular window blinds.

New types of blinds for arched windows are introduced each day to keep up with the growing number of homes using these modern window styles. Most window blind companies can provide custom fit arched blinds to suit any traditional window blind.

Advantages of Blinds for Arched Windows

Window treatments are an simple way to add a personal touch to your home or just to enhance your decorating theme. Window blinds not only add flair to your home’s interior, they are also somewhat functional.

Arched windows look wonderful in your home and allow additional light to enter the house without interfering with your privacy, but they can also cause unnecessary glares and additional heat in the summer. Covering your arched windows with custom fit window blinds will allow you to adjust the amount of light that shines in.

Many blinds for arched windows operate on a remote control to make it convenient to open and close the blinds, even if the arched window is installed several feet above the floor. With a remote, you can open your blinds to allow the morning’s first light to shine in and then simply press a button to close the blind when the heat of the afternoon sun warms the room.

Disadvantages of Blinds for Arched Windows

While blinds for arched windows are marvelous accents for your home and are very helpful for managing the light and temperature within your home, they can be difficult to clean. Most window blinds can be troublesome to keep free of dust and dirt, but those for arched windows are often located much higher so the task is even more tedious.

The other primary downfall of deciding to cover your arched windows with blinds is finding the right size for your window. Arched windows are many inconvenient sizes and these types of blinds are typically only offered at specialty shops or online. Some arched windows are not perfect arches and require a custom made blind.

How Much are Blinds for Arched Windows?

There are many different styles of blinds that are designed specifically for arched windows, so the price can differ a lot depending on the quality and materials, as well as the size of the blinds and the included features. Simple pleated and cellular arched window blinds can be found for as little as $60. More refined blinds for arched windows and wooden blinds can cost more than $200 each.

By John Roberts   Published: 12/7/2007    

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A window just doesn’t look complete unless until it is affixed with a treatment such as drapes, curtains or blinds. Windows without these accessories look bare and cold, whereas windows with handsome treatments look charming and classy. A window with a special covering adds a finished look to any room and creates a finality that is pleasing to the eye.

  French country window coverings are gorgeous treatments that are rich with color and texture. Window coverings of this sort are usually set in muted tones of purple, yellow, pink and green. The idea of the French country window dressing is that it reflects the colors and hues of the French countryside.

You will find many customized French window coverings that feature pictures of flowers and fruit. These are two aspects of country life that the French adore. Whether it be round, plump lemons or wispy and fragrant lilacs, the motifs of flora and fruit are very common among French decor.

 
Intricate lace patterns are also common of French window blinds and coverings. The airy affects of these window coverings can create a feeling of peace and relaxation. White or ivory lace coverings give a feminine touch to any room and look great in rooms furnished sparsely with heavy wood pieces. The contrast of delicate lace and thick, dominant wood works well to create an aesthetic balance.

Most French window treatments utilize a set of thick curtains as well as a decorative valence. The valence adds an ornamental crown to the window and is a traditional way of dressing one’s windows. A set of window blinds can also be used, though they are not seen as frequently as the conventional, heavy drapes of French homes. Blinds run horizontally and while they protect against the sun, don’t offer a whole lot of decoration.

Another popular French theme you will find on window coverings is that of toile. Toile is a special design that usually features depictions of everyday life in small, repeated patterns. It has become an increasingly desired theme to use in children’s rooms over the past few years. Toile is often whimsical and childlike, lending a certain fanciful ambiance to any room.
By Christopher Smith   Published:  9/4/2007     Visit us for more information on window treatment ideas, bedroom window treatments and bargain window coverings.

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If you’re looking for a simple, inexpensive way in which you can transform the look of a room, you really need to look no further than your window coverings. Don’t put the same old tired curtains that everyone else in your neighborhood has; go for something bold and daring that will add pizzazz to your home. Put your imagination into overdrive and see what inspired creations will find their way to your windows.

A very nifty way to create your own window coverings is by using a wrought iron curtain rod, pinch clips, and either hemmed or un-hemmed fabric. The pinch clips grip the fabric and allow you to hang pretty much any fabric you choose from your window. Sheers and plain fabric with gothic styled wrought iron are currently popular choices. You can also elect to use sheets from the discount store for this particular look. They will billow nicely for a nice romantic look that is perfect for bedrooms. You might also elect to use ribbons or ties in order to enhance the overall look of your window coverings.

You can also purchase window coverings that simply slide along the rod without any clips. These curtains can be found in many different designs and fabrics. Some of them simply offer loops or tabs at the top that allow you to slide the rod through the curtain. You can also quite easily make your own by adding ribbons or tabs to the top and securing them with decorative buttons.

If you are looking for something trendy and popular consider a curtain or window covering that is made with specialty paper rather than fabric. These hand made or rice paper designs allow for some rather interesting blinds that are semi transparent and quite adaptable to most decors. While these are quite expensive to purchase they are also deceptively easy to make. You will need to find a store that sells hand-made paper though.

You’ll want to spend some time looking at the many papers they have and selecting the one that you feel will suit your style and decor the best. Once you’ve purchased the paper you will need to cut it to the size of your window. Now that you’ve accomplished this you will place the paper on wire and attach it with binder clips. This type of window covering works best in rooms where you’d like light to stream in but maintain a need for privacy.

Hand-painted Venetian blinds are another way to add a special touch to your decor. This type of window covering can be prohibitively expensive however;

you can imitate the look by painting your own. The easiest way to achieve this look is by using a stencil and a can of spray paint to put one solid design on the blinds. This can also work with vertical blinds as well.

Remember when decorating that shower curtains and window coverings are essential in defining the style of a room. The more design elements you introduce to your window coverings, the more formal your room will seem. The simpler the look, the more casual your room will appear.   

By Christopher Smith     Published: 12/15/2006

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