Window shades come in many different designs. Each type gives the window a different look and feel. Depending on your personal preference, you should have no problem finding a style of window blind that suits your taste as well as your budget. There is an almost infinite variety of colors and materials that are used to make blinds. It can be overwhelming to know where to begin, so the following is a breakdown of what is available and which types work best in different situations.

Mini blinds are the most common and usually least expensive option for window treatments. The great thing about these types of blinds, besides the cost, is the vast amount of colors available. The low end kinds are normally made of vinyl or plastic. The downside to this particular type is that they usually don’t last very long, however, since they are inexpensive, they are easily replaced. Some slightly more expensive mini blinds are made of aluminum and even copper. With the metal blinds, be sure to check the gauge, or thickness of the metal. The window blind made of thinner metal is more likely to bend or dent. These blinds are more durable and can give you a much different effect along with your other window treatments.

If you like the look of a vinyl shade, but want something a little classier, wooden blinds might be a good alternative. They are a little more expensive, but much more durable. If you want the rich, deep look of the wood, but are concerned that it might be a little more fragile than you want you can get the same look in a more durable material. Synthetic materials are growing in popularity as a more durable replacement for a wooden window blind. They can be made to look exactly like wood, and they offer all the rich color and texture that comes with wooden shades. If you decide on wooden or synthetic product, it is a good idea to match the color to another wood in the room, such as furniture, baseboards, or wooden trim.

For a more modern look, many people choose vertical blinds. As the name implies, these blinds hang vertically instead of horizontally. They look good on almost any window or sliding glass door and the slats overlap for maximum privacy. This type of window blind adds a very contemporary feel to a room . They are even available in fabric, so you could choose a pattern that matches your other décor perfectly.

Another good alternative to the common horizontal window blind is the panel blind. This type comes in an almost infinite variety of colors and styles. They are made differently than other blinds. They normally hang from a curtain rod that is hidden with a valance. These blinds can be sheer to allow light to enter, or they can be made of other materials that block more light. Instead of using cords to adjust them, they are moved by hand like a curtain.

Juli Johnson ©DEH Interiors