Can You Shorten PVC Blinds

 

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a popular material for window blinds and shades. Over time, PVC blinds can become damaged, discolored, or simply out of style. Rather than replacing them completely, many homeowners wonder if shortening PVC blinds is an option.

The short answer is yes - with some caveats, PVC blinds can be shortened. However, the process requires specific tools and techniques to ensure a clean, straight cut. Improper shortening can result in crooked, frayed blinds that won't function properly.

In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step overview of how to shorten PVC blinds successfully. We'll cover:

Benefits of Shortening vs. Replacing PVC Blinds

What You'll Need to Shorten PVC Blinds

How to Measure PVC Blinds for Cutting

Cutting the Blinds to Size

Re-hanging the Shortened Blinds

 

 

Installing new blinds can be expensive, from buying the materials to properly measuring and mounting them. Shortening existing PVC blinds allows you to refresh the look of your windows in less time and for less money.

Other benefits of shortening vs. replacement include:

Saves money - No need to purchase new blinds and hardware. Just pay for a few tools and supplies.

Preserves current look - Keep the same style and color scheme that matches your existing decor.

Retains functionality - Properly shortened blinds will function the same as new blinds.

Eco-friendly - Shortening reuses and repurposes instead of adding waste to landfills.

For relatively new blinds in good condition, shortening is an economical and sustainable option.

 

 

Shortening PVC blinds is a relatively easy DIY project. Make sure you have these supplies on hand before getting started:

Metal tape measure

Pencil

Safety glasses

Dust mask

Wire cutters

Power drill

Fine-toothed saw blade

Metal yardstick or ruler

Sandpaper

You'll also need a steady surface like a workbench or table on which to cut the blinds. Cover the surface with an old sheet or blanket to catch dust and debris.

For safety, work in a well-ventilated area clear of bystanders, pets, and valuables. Tie back long hair and avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry.

 

 

Taking accurate measurements is crucial for getting a straight, clean cut and proper blind function after shortening. Follow these steps:

Fully extend the blinds to their current total length.

Mark the desired new length with a pencil on the edge of the blinds. Include an extra 1/4" to allow for any variance in cutting.

Use wire cutters to carefully remove any strings, cords or wires that extend below your pencil line.

Retract the blinds completely to prepare for cutting.

Measure twice to ensure your pencil line is perfectly straight and matches on both sides. This prevents uneven shortening.

Cutting the Blinds to Size

With the right blade and gentle technique, you can achieve beautiful cuts to shorten your blinds. Here is the process:

Secure the blinds by clamping them to a covered work surface. Make sure they lie perfectly flat.

Put on safety glasses and a dust mask. Also clear any objects from the cutting path.

Mark cutting lines with pencil if not already done when measuring.

Attach a fine-toothed saw blade to your power drill. Run the drill to ensure the blade spins smoothly.

Position the saw blade just outside the far edge of the pencil line. Cut slowly and steadily along the line through all layers of the blind.

Use sandpaper to gently smooth any extremely rough edges on the cut ends.

Take care not to force or twist the drill during cutting. Let the blade do the work.

 

 

Once cut to the desired length, you'll enjoy your updated blinds for years to come. To complete the project:

Wipe away all dust and debris from the blinds.

Re-hang the blinds in the window, following the mounting guidelines.

Carefully replace any cords, strings or wires that you removed prior to cutting. Make sure they are straight and untwisted as they pass through the blinds.

Test that the blind raises and lowers smoothly without binding. If needed, sand small rough edges for smoother operation.

Over time, periodically check that all screws and hardware remain tight. This prevents sagging, especially on larger or heavier window blinds.

Consider adding decorative embellishments to the shortened blinds to increase visual interest. For example, tie on cute trim pieces or painted wooden cutouts using blind cord or ribbon.

Shortened horizontal blinds can sometimes leave empty space visible above or alongside the windows. Fill this with framed artwork, decorative mirrors, or vibrant potted plants.

Change the entire feel of a room by painting the existing hardware and blinds frames. Use spray paint formulated for metal and plastic to update the color scheme.

Rotate fabrics, curtains and window treatments seasonally to complement the shortened blinds. Try sheer linens in summer, layered textures in fall and heavy drapes in winter.

Rearrange furniture layouts to highlight shortened blinds on primary windows while downplaying those in seldom-used areas. Move seating to face the best views.

 

Shortening lets you refresh and reuse window treatments while saving the cost of full replacements. With some creativity and home decor updates, your revised blinds will look like new custom installations.