Do you have a skylight feature in your home, or are you debating getting one? If so, skylight blinds are the perfect way to alternate between a bright and dim environment whenever you want.
Whether you’re watching a movie during the daytime or you want to prevent intruders from looking in, blinds will always come in handy.
Today, Tuffx will teach you how to make DIY skylight blinds as a quick and cost-effective solution. For more home improvements, browse our various glass applications.
Why you should opt for DIY skylight blinds
One of the most beneficial aspects of DIY skylight blinds is potential cost savings.
Ready-made blinds can be expensive, and the DIY route allows you to choose your own material, colour, and style.
You can also ensure a secure fit for your window, adding a personal and aesthetic touch to your home.
The types of skylight blinds
There are various styles you can opt for with skylight blinds. Some popular styles include:
- Roller blinds: This consists of a single piece of fabric which rolls up and down.
- Venetian blinds: These are made from horizontal slots, typically of wood, plastic, or metal.
- Cellular blinds: This has a unique honeycomb structure for great insulation.
- Pleated blinds: These are lightweight and made from a single piece of fabric that is pleated horizontally.
- Blackout blinds: These are designed to block out all light, perfect for bedrooms and cinema rooms.
Tools and materials
To create your own DIY blinds, you will need:
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Drill and screwdriver
- Staple gun
- Level
- Pliers
- Sewing machine and thread (optional)
- Fabric and blind mechanism
- Mounting brackets and hardware
- Rods or dowels
- Adhesive velcro or magnetic strips
- Blind cord or chain
- Weights for blinds
Choosing the right fabric
Depending on the type of blinds you want to create, there are various fabric options for you to choose from. Some common types include:
- Blackout fabric: These fabrics are thicker, often featuring a special coating to prevent light penetration. This includes three-pass and PVC blackout fabric.
- Translucent fabrics: These allow light to filter through while providing privacy and reducing glare. This includes sheer cotton and linen.
- Patterned or decorative fabrics: This is perfect for a decorative element in your home. Some key options include floral prints, geometric patterns, and damask.
- Thermal fabrics: These help to keep your home warm in winter and cool in the summer. This includes honeycomb and blackout fabric.
A step-by-step guide to making DIY skylight blinds
1. Measure your skylight
Using a measuring tape, measure the width and length of the inside of your skylight frame.
Repeat this step for accurate measurements and write them down.
2. Select and cut your fabric
Choose a fabric that matches your style and preferences. Then, gather a roller mechanism, fabric glue, sewing materials, and any decorative elements you wish to add.
When you’re ready to cut the fabric, use fabric scissors for a clean cut and add extra inches on each side to account for hemming. To hem the edges, fold them over and iron them for a flat surface. Then, use a sewing machine or fabric glue to attach the hem.
3. Assemble the roller mechanism
If necessary, use a hacksaw to adjust the size of your roller bar to fit the measurements of your skylight. Mark a straight line on the bar for guidelines when placing the fabric.
Then, align the fabric on the roller and use fabric glue to attach it. Try and place it evenly on the bar without any wrinkles or bubbles. Once it’s attached, roll it up and leave it to bond for a while.
4. Install the Mounting Brackets
Use a marker to mark where you need to place the brackets. These can be placed on the sides, bottom, or top of the recess, depending on the type of blind.
Hold the brackets in place, and mark where the drill holes need to be. Then, select a drill bit appropriate for the material of the skylight frame and drill pilot holes in the marked spots.
Ensure the pilot holes are slightly smaller than the screw for a secure fit. Then, align the brackets over the pilot holes and use a screwdriver or power drill to screw it in place.
5. Check the alignment
After mounting the brackets, use a spirit level to check everything is straight and aligned correctly.
If the brackets aren’t level, loosen the screws slightly to adjust it, then re-tighten them.
6. Attach the blind
Insert the roller blind into the brackets. Pull down the blind to ensure it works efficiently.
If your blind needs a pull mechanism, attach it to the bottom of the fabric.
Choose Tuffx for your skylight
At Tuffx, we specialise in glass applications, including roof lights, walk-on glass floors, balustrades and more!
Our skylights are designed to enhance the appearance and efficiency of your home or commercial space. With a range of stunning designs to choose from and manufactured with tough, high-quality glass, our skylights are guaranteed to transform any building.
Browse our skylights today to find the perfect option for your needs.