Matchstick Blinds
Home décor tips for matchstick blinds
Matchstick blinds are an inexpensive form of window covering. Originally made from bamboo, matchstick blinds are now also made from rattan, jute and other woods woven together with natural grasses and reeds. Whatever material is used in their construction matchstick blinds are cut to 1/8 inch diameter; hence the 'matchstick' name. Matchstick blinds come in two main styles: as a standard roller blind or the more decorative roman blind (which creates pleats when raised).
Most of the major blinds manufacturers such as Levelor, American and Bali produce matchstick blinds and they are available in a wide range of sizes. If they don’t fit your window exactly they are fairly easy to tailor at home (due to the thinness of the slats). Many people choose matchstick blinds as a way of bringing the outdoor feeling inside, hence their popularity in conservatories.
Matchstick blinds are available in a variety of natural colors thanks to the different woods used in construction. However, if you fancy something more individual (or a change from the present color of your matchstick blind) they are easy to decorate at home. It may sound obvious, but you’ll need to first take them down and save the painting for outdoors. For overall painting you should consider using spray paint or a paint gun as this will give a cleaner and more even finish (and don’t try to cut corners by just painting one side).
Other ways to cheer up tired looking matchstick blinds include: replacing the cord with ribbon, creating a striped effect by masking off areas with tape then painting, or investing in some stencils and a well-loaded stippling brush. Whichever route you choose to follow matchstick blinds are one of the easiest and cheapest ways of personalizing a room. However, they serve more of a decorative than a practical function and aren’t much use at keeping sunlight out.