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How to make your own cardboard window blind

make your own cardboard window blind

 

A window blind is a type of apparatus used to cover the windows, especially in regions where curtains prove insufficient – in case of very cold regions – or too heavy or large to be installed – in case of pane-less windows. Blinds are usually made of wood, fabric, plastic or metal that can be used to cover the windows by using a manual or electrical apparatus. Typically, blinds are costlier than normal curtains and are restricted to fixed dimensions. This makes it imprudent for those who have to switch places or have a very tight budget.

Following is the set of instructions, which, if followed correctly, can land you up with beautiful, cheap blinds in just thirty minutes.

Difficulty level: This process involves basic use of needles, drill and cardboard. It is very easy, and anyone can do it as long as he/she is not a child. If there’s a point where some guidance may be needed, it will be for drilling.

Time required: Basically, it will take 30 minutes for completion, though it will take more time if you decide to decorate the cardboard. Also, time lost due to errors is not included.

Resources required:

  • A big sheet of cardboard
  • Drill
  • Some twine
  • A ruler
  • a knife or cutter
  • 2 hairclips or clothespins
  • 2 hooks or heavy stones
  • 1 big needle for the twine

Instructions:

1. Before making the blind, it is very important to know for what you are making this apparatus for in the first place. As a blind is fixed for a particular window and cannot be used anywhere else, it is mandatory to have the correct measurements of the window, otherwise all the efforts will go to waste. So, measure the dimensions of your window carefully, and then add 20 inches more to the height, as the blind goes lower than the window pane to ensure full coverage. Note or remember the dimensions. Also measure the depth of the window (depth of the window is the width of window-pane; pane-less window do not have depths).

2. Cut out the sheet of cardboard of the obtained dimensions.

3. Now, it is time to create folds for the blind. Thickness of the fold depends on the depth of the window. If the depth of your window is x cm, width of the folds will be x/2 cm. Using a scale, impress a line on the cardboard every x/2 cm with the help of a sharp instrument, such as a knife. Make sure that the cardboard is not cut through, as these lines are only guidelines to fold the cardboard later on.

4. Fold the cardboard in the same direction by the lines created earlier. Press the folds harder to make an impression. When the cardboard is folded, it will appear to be a cylinder.

5. Turn the cardboard ti the other side.

6. Impress the lines on this side and fold them. It will lead to a zigzag folded cardboard.

7. Take a drill and make a hole through a side of the folded blind. Make sure that it is neither too close to the center nor to the edges. Once the drill is made, pass a twine through the hole. Use needle for easiness. Tie a knot at one end.

8. Repeat the above step for the opposite side of the cardboard.

9. Mount the side with the knot, on the upside of your window. Use clamps or screws to fix it there. Tense both the twines at the bottom of the window. To adjust the length of the blind, use clips on the twine.

Frequently asked questions

1. What kind of material that can be used for the blind?

Any material, as long as it is stiff. If it is not stiff, in case of paper, use starch.

2. How much light can this blind block?

The blind will block almost all the light, except that which filters through the drill-hole.

3. What can I do if the window in question has a very large width?

Two strings can be added to the blind, each on the either side. You can add more, if two do not work out.

4. Can painted cardboard be used for blinds?

Yes, painted cardboard can be used, though the color will fade with time due to its reaction with sunlight.

5. How much will this process cost?

The only cost that is incurred is that of the cardboard sheet. You can manually make a hole, if you do not have a drill. In such a case, use a screwdriver.

Quick tips

  • Choose a good sheet of cardboard with no holes. There is no point of blind if light filters through it.
  • Use an inch-tape used by engineers and carpenters for measuring the window and the cardboard.
  • Use a needle to the twine through the drilled hole. It will be more easy.
  • To make the blind more beautiful, paint the cardboard.
  • Apart from cardboard, straw-mats and hard-fabric cloth can also be used.

Things to watch out for

  • Cardboard should be of good quality.
  • Apply pressure only when needed.
  • Use a strong twine. If it breaks, it will be difficult to replace it.
  • Take exact measurements of the window. It will be crucial for the blind.
  • Be careful while choosing a pin for the drill.
  • Be careful while handling the drill. Switch off the machine if not in use.
  • While installing, make sure that the blind is exactly horizontal.

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