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Are your blinds too wide to fit your window? You don't have to go curtain shopping just yet. It's actually fairly easy to cut blinds down to size, whether you're working with Venetian blinds, vinyl mini blinds, or something else. Check out the steps below to learn how to cut the head rail and slats on your blinds so they fit perfectly in your window.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Cutting the Head Rail

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  1. Typically, a set of inside-mount blinds should measure about 12 inch (1.3 cm) less than the width of the window frame. Make sure you measure the inside of the frame, where the blinds actually fit, and not the entire window frame.
    • Measure in at least three places -- the top, bottom, and middle of the window.
  2. Most windows are going to have regular, even spacing, but older houses may have some variability. If there is a change, use the smallest measurement taken.
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  3. This small gap will keep your blinds from getting cut or stuck on the windowsill.
  4. Use the measurement found above and mark the headrail (the top of the blinds) at this length. You may either cut an even amount off of both sides or cut only from the pull cord side.
    • If the chords are on one side, you can cut only from the other side. In many ways, only cutting one side is much easier.
  5. Simply start sawing to remove the headrail where you noted:
    • Remove the metal end stiffener bracket from the side(s) you are cutting.
    • Use the hacksaw or tin snips to cut the headrail per your measured mark.
    • File any rough edges with a metal file. However, keep in mind that the headrail edges will be covered by the mounting brackets, so a rough cut will not be visible.
    • Replace the metal end stiffener onto the newly cut headrail.[1]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Cutting the Slats

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  1. Ensure that the pull cord is fully engaged so there is no slack.
  2. Make sure they are tight, but also even. You want them to line up perfectly for a perfect cut.
    • The band or clamp should be on the inside of wherever you're making your cut.
  3. This is especially helpful if you are working with wood or faux wood blinds.
  4. This will be right in line with your newly cut headrail. Use a straight edge to ensure they are lined up nicely and draw a line to cut with.
  5. Once you've created your line, slide the slats away from the headrail, if possible.
  6. For plastic blinds, you might even be able to use a powerful set of sheers.
  7. If not, trim individual elements as needed to ensure a consistent width. Use some sandpaper to clean off the edges of the blinds.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    How do I cut to the length of woven and wood window coverings?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Take them to a home store and have them cut professionally. Don't try to do it yourself -- you'll end up being dissatisfied.
  • Question
    How do I cut a notch in my blinds to make room for a door latch?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    If you only need to trim a few of the slats shorter and the blind is mounted permanently onto a door, then I would say to use tin snips or sheers.
  • Question
    Can I cut tape blinds that are 131 cm. wide to 110 cm.?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Yes you can, but make sure it's not slanted or else you'll end up with some weird blinds.
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Things You'll Need

  • Blinds
  • Tape measure
  • Hacksaw
  • Tin snips
  • Pencil
  • Metal file
  • Masking tape
  • Clamp
  • Power saw

About This Article

Karen Parziale
Co-authored by:
Home Stager & Interior Designer
This article was co-authored by Karen Parziale. Karen Parziale is a Home Stager, Home Organizer, and the Founder of The Real Estate Staging Studio based in Hoboken, New Jersey. Karen has over 15 years of home staging and decorating experience and has staged over 5,000 homes. She specializes in project management, space planning, material selections, and builder, architect, and client relationships. This article has been viewed 311,975 times.
1 votes - 100%
Co-authors: 13
Updated: November 4, 2024
Views: 311,975
Categories: Window Blinds
Article SummaryX

To cut blinds, start by marking a straight line on the head rail where you want to cut it using a pencil. Then, use a hacksaw or tin snips to cut the head rail along the line. Once you've cut the head rail, secure the ends of the blind slats with a rubber band and cover the ends with masking tape so they don't splinter or chip. Then, line the head rail up with the slats and mark the end of the head rail on the slats so you know where to cut them. Finally, use a circular saw or table saw to cut along the mark on the slats. To learn how to calculate how much you should cut off your blinds, read on!

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Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 311,975 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Stewart Blair

    Stewart Blair

    Aug 25, 2016

    "I was under the impression that I couldn't alter my Venetian blinds. Your instructions have saved me a..." more
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