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A guide to sizing and hanging roller blinds or shades
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Installing a roller blind in a window is really easy. However, in order to do it correctly you must be sure that the roller blind fits correctly. To do this you will need to determine where you want the blind, measure the space, cut the blind, and install it into the window.

Things You Should Know

  • Measure your window horizontally to determine the width of your blinds. Choose to fit them inside the window frame or slightly outside of it.
  • Then, use a hand drill to install the roller brackets on either side of your window.
  • Cut off any excess material if the blind is too large for your window, then simply hang the roll inside the brackets.
Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Determining What Blind You Need

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  1. Although roller blinds are typically installed inside of the window frame, it can also sit outside of the window frame or above the window. The location of the blind is personal preference. Make sure that you determine where you would like to install the blind before buying the blind.[1]
    • Hold the blind up to the window to visually see where you would like to secure the brackets.
    • Use a pencil to mark where you want to blind to be secured.
  2. Use a tape measure to measure the distance of the space that you would like to blind to be secured. Measure horizontally from one point to the other point.[2]
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  3. Once you have determined the measurement of the space, you can purchase your blind. Purchase the blind that best fits the space that you have measured. If it is not exact, opt for a larger blind. The blind can always be cut to fit the space.
    • Most roller blinds can be purchased at a home improvement store.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

Deciding on the Placement

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  1. Evaluate the space and determine which side of the blind you would like the chain to hang down. Most roller blinds allow you to change the side that the chain hangs on.[3]
    • For example, if you have a chair to the left of the window, you may decide to hang the chain on the left for easier access.
  2. The blind can either roll under or over the roller. Typically, the blind is positioned so that it rolls under the roller. However, if you have objects that protrude from the window, you may decide to roll the blind over the roller. This way, the blind will not be obstructed when it is pulled down over the window.[4]
  3. Using a hand drill, secure the brackets that came with the roller blind. Make sure that the brackets are screwed in tightly to prevent the blind from falling.[5]
    • Follow the instruction manual that come with your blinds. Every roller blind is slightly different.
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Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

Hanging the Blind

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  1. Cut the blind to fit the space. If you blind is too large for the window, you will need to cut it to fit the space. Remove the blind from the roller. Measure the amount of blind that you need to remove. Draw a line all the way up the blind’s fabric with a pencil. Cut vertically up the fabric. Reattach the fabric to the roller.[6]
    • Measure the space one more time to verify the measurements before making any cuts to the blind.
    • When securing the fabric back on the roller, it is important to make sure that the fabric is secured perfectly horizontally. If not, the fabric will not roll correctly on the roller.
  2. Wedge the blind into the brackets that you have already secured. Make sure that you are following the instructions that are provided with your roller blind to ensure proper installation.
  3. Secure the chain to the wall with the screws provided. Use a hand drill for best results.
    • Some chains hang loosely beside of the blind. If this is the case, do not worry about securing the chain.
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Community Q&A

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Add New Question
  • Question
    How do I shorten the length or drop of the blind which is attached to the top of the pole with sticky adhesive?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Pull the sticky adhesive away from the blind fabric as carefully as possible and place on the edge of your new length. Cut away any length you don't want at the top of the adhesive. A couple of staples give it extra strength.
  • Question
    How can I untangle the blind leads?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    There should be a plastic piece that keeps the beads connected along the chain. Pry it open gently with a knife, try not to break it. Once it's open you can take the beads out, untangle, and refit.
  • Question
    Can I drill the bracket mounting holes at an angle?
    Eriko Angelo Flores
    Eriko Angelo Flores
    Community Answer
    No. The screw head will not be flush with the bracket, and the screw should support the weight of the blinds perpendicularly.
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Warnings

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Things You’ll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil
  • Hand drill
  • Scissors
  • Roller blind
  • Screws
  • Brackets

About This Article

Michael Fox
Co-authored by:
Window Repair Specialist
This article was co-authored by Michael Fox. Michael Fox is a Window Repair Specialist and the President at Window Repair Systems and WindowHardwareDirect.com, based in Westminster, South Carolina. With over 25 years of experience, Michael specializes in commercial window repair and service. He holds a business degree from Monroe Community College and SUNY Brockport. Michael has helped Window Repair Systems and WindowHardwareDirect.com become an industry leader in commercial window repair and hardware distribution, servicing schools and businesses and training large public school systems. This article has been viewed 321,515 times.
158 votes - 66%
Co-authors: 13
Updated: May 19, 2023
Views: 321,515
Categories: Window Blinds | Home Repairs
Article SummaryX

To fit a roller blind, first use a tape measure to measure horizontally from one end of the window to the other to ensure you have the right size blind. Once you’ve bought a roller blind, use a hand drill to secure the brackets that come with it. Place one on each side at the top of the window frame. When you’re ready to hang the roller blind, simply wedge the ends into the brackets you’ve put up. Then, screw the blind chain to the wall with the screws provided. If your blind is too wide to fit your window, remove it from the roller and trim it before returning it to the roller. To learn how to decide whether to hang your blind roller over or under, read on!

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Reader Success Stories

  • Amir Radhi

    Amir Radhi

    Jul 17, 2018

    "The instructions are very clear!"
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