Four ways to hang curtains in a rental.

Your guide to hanging temporary curtains and blinds in a rental property.

Rentals can often feel impersonal and cold, with few options for making the apartment or house feel like home while you are living there. But renting shouldn’t mean sacrificing privacy, or having a darkened room to sleep in. Whether it’s a short term stay or a long term rental, you want to feel comfortable in your space.

One way you can add ambience to a rental property is by installing temporary curtains or blinds. With no drilling required, you can remove them and take them with you when you move on without leaving a trace. Or, if your landlord permits you to make improvements in your rental, you can help the owner to save costs with DIY curtains and roller blinds from iSeekBlinds.

Here are a few ideas you can use to hang curtains or blinds and make any rental feel more like home.

Hang temporary blinds

Temporary blinds provide a simple solution for a bare window. Blinds offer a modern, contemporary look, and unlike standard blinds, you can take these down when you move.

Temporary blinds are inexpensive, easy to install and often made from high-quality paper that you can install yourself. They are also an ideal solution to cover your windows when waiting for your custom-made Curtains, Blinds or Plantation Shutters too!

Black temporary blinds will provide privacy and room darkening, making them ideal for bedrooms; and white temporary blinds will filter the light whilst providing daytime privacy. 

You won’t need tools to install them. All you need to do is cut the blinds to size and mount them to your window, avoiding any water-based paint surfaces. For large windows, two blinds can overlap to provide full coverage.

When you no longer need the blinds, you can recycle them or pack them up and take them to your next property.

Use a tension rod

A tension rod means you can hang curtains without worrying about drilling into the wall. A tension rod sits inside the window architrave or between two walls and relies on tension from a spring inside the rod to hold it in place.

Tension rods are a subtle and elegant way to complete the look of your room with sheer curtains that look natural. There’s the option to place the curtain rod high in the window for maximum coverage.

Placing a tension rod lower in the window gives a ‘country curtain’ style coverage, perfect for letting natural light into the room whilst still providing privacy in the kitchen or bathroom.

The limitation with a tension rod is that it can’t usually support heavier drapes. You can still hang blackout curtains if you select lighter fabrics with a total curtain weight under 3kg.

Suspend curtains from Command hooks

Command hooks are another removable option for hanging curtains. These hooks come in different colours and weight ratings, so you can choose a pair of hooks that suit the curtains.

Once the hooks are mounted, you can mount tab top or eyelet curtains on a piece of dowel suspended between the hooks or invest in a curtain rod.

When choosing the curtain rod, remember to be mindful of the weight. A lighter rod will be less likely to tip the total weight over the capacity of the hooks.

Use a twist-and-fit curtain rod

A twist-and-fit curtain rod is like a tension rod, but it looks like a regular curtain rail. Twist and fit rods sit inside the window architrave, and you won’t need any tools to install them.

The advantage of twist-and-fit curtain rods is the variety of options. You can select the colour, size and finish to achieve a homey, complete look.

High-end twist-and-fit curtain rods can also hold heavier curtains, allowing you to hang drapes or blackout curtains safely without using a drill.

Tips for hanging curtains in a rental property

• Choose lightweight curtain fabrics:
  Most temporary methods to hang curtains can’t support the weight of heavy drapes or thick fabrics. You are limited to lighter curtain materials that fall under the maximum weight your temporary curtain rod or rail can support.
• Be prepared to leave curtains long:
  When you move, you may want to re-use the same curtains in your next property. After all, your curtains match the rest of your decor, so it’s nice to keep it all together. Sometimes this will mean leaving curtains long to retain their original size. A curtain that drapes onto the floor provides opulence and you can clean curtains regularly to reduce any dust build-up. It also future-proofs you if your next rental has higher windows.
• Be careful with water-based paint:
  Command hooks and other removable wall hangings don’t always come off as seamlessly as you would like, especially if the paint is water-based or a low-quality specification. Chipped paint can mean a deduction from your security bond. Before hanging temporary hooks, it might pay to get a paint sample to match the walls. That way, if any paint does come off when you remove the sticky pad behind the hook, you can touch it up.

Now you have options for making a rental your own and getting privacy. Which window treatment are you going to use?

What next?

If you’re in need of some inspiration, visit our gallery or Instagram page for ideas and real-life photos from our customers.  Once you’ve decided which product you prefer, make use of our free fabric samples. They will allow you to see and feel the fabrics before selecting the one you like best.

So, if you’ve got a home that could benefit from a refresh, let us help you! The DIY process is easy to follow, and it will make a world of difference to your home, we promise.

Need some help? You can either Contact our customer service team or book in a free design consultation with me.

Thanks for reading!
Cheers, 

Mike Gubby. 

Accent a contemporary or traditional room with double curtains.

In this post, I’m going to show you how you can use layers of curtains, to add softness and luxury to any home. Whether you love the vintage style of lace curtains and heavy drapes or prefer a striking modern look, there many curtain layering combinations to consider.

Dark sheers over blackout curtains are one modern style that you may have seen trending on Instagram. Another popular style is layering neutral fabrics for a bohemian vibe. To inspire you, here are some of the creative ways you can combine sheer and blackout curtains.

Whatever your style, you can find the fabrics and advice to achieve the look you want with iSeekBlinds custom made curtains.

Blackout curtains over sheer curtains.

Placing sheer curtains close to the window glass and blackout curtains towards the inside of the room allows for privacy during daylight and darker hours.

During the daytime, opening blackout curtains will allow natural light to flow into the room. Sheer curtains can remain closed as these transparent fabrics allow light to enter, softening the harsh sunlight in the summer months. In the cooler months, you may open sheer curtains to allow maximum light to fill the room.

In the evening, you can maintain privacy and warmth by closing the blackout curtains.

Sheer curtains and blockout curtains can be hung as single or multiple panels. Two panels create traditional centre-opening curtains, multiple panels can be free-floating and move along the track to where you want them to sit, whereas one single curtain will gather on one side when open.

Sheer curtains over blackout curtains.

Blockout curtains can help improve sleep, but you may prefer the visual softness of sheer curtains facing the inside of a room. This modern curtain layering style is perfect when you want a contemporary twist on a traditional window treatment. This is also the favoured option of the iSeekBlinds team as it allows our beautiful sheer curtain fabrics to really shine!

Bringing sheer curtains to the inside is an elegant way to soften any room’s decor. S-fold sheer curtains can be allowed to hang to the floor, or you may drape curtains back with ties for a more theatrical and romantic effect.

Ceiling mounted sheer and blackout curtains.

Mounting curtains from the ceiling adds a sense of height to the room while enhancing elegance with smooth visual lines. Ceiling-mounted curtains can open on the left, right, and centre, or be free-floating, to suit your room and style.

If you want both curtain layers to move freely and independently, mounting S-fold curtains on separate tracks is most effective. Our curtain tracks have a small profile that blends seamlessly with the ceiling, hiding the brackets for an elegant finish.

Wall-mounted sheer and blackout curtains.

Wall-mounted curtains are attached to the wall directly above the window. Different bracket lengths ensure that sheer curtains and blackout curtains can both move freely.

Wall-mounted curtains often have a centre opening, but you could also use a left-hand or right-hand stack, or free-floating curtains, to suit the layout of the room you are decorating.

Choose motorised curtain tracks for blackout curtains.

For added modernisation, you can choose motorised curtain tracks. Motorised curtain tracks allow the curtains to be opened at a distance, even when you are still in bed.

This style of curtain track is ideal for blackout curtains. Imagine being able to set a timer so that the curtains open automatically, allowing light into the room for a natural awakening — no alarm necessary!

You may choose to mount both curtain layers on motorised tracks or mount sheer curtains on hand-operated tracks and blackout curtains on motorised rails

Which curtain layer should be longer?

Before ordering sheer and blackout curtains for layering, you will need to plan the curtain length. The total length of the curtain is known as the ‘drop’. The drop is the length of the curtain from the curtain tracks at the top to the floor.

When layering sheer curtains with heavier drapes, the lighter fabric can fall slightly shorter than the heavier fabric to maintain movement. For example, if your sheer curtains are measured to hover just above the floor, your blackout curtains might lightly touch the flooring.

Sheer curtains mounted over blackout curtains will look elegant with a longer length. While blackout curtains might hover or barely touch the floor, sheers facing into the room may break gently to provide a sense of luxury.

Ultimately the choice is yours – you can make them the same drop, or one longer,  it’s totally up to you — with custom-made curtains, you can achieve the exact look you are after.

You can find instructions on exactly how to measure for sheer and blackout curtains, and our founder Mike has prepared video demonstrations for each step to guide you on your DIY journey!

Benefits of layering curtains.

Combining sheer curtains with blackout curtains has many advantages. Here are just a few:

• Layering curtains can help maintain the room temperature
• Curtains can help protect furnishings and decor from fading in the sunlight
• Blockout curtains can reduce sound from outside
• You can customise the level of light in any room to suit the season and your requirements

What next?

If you’re in need of some inspiration, visit our gallery or Instagram page for ideas and real-life photos from our customers.  Once you’ve decided which product you prefer, make use of our free fabric samples. They will allow you to see and feel the fabrics before selecting the one you like best.

So, if you’ve got a bedroom that could benefit from a refresh, let us help you! The DIY process is easy to follow, and it will make a world of difference to your home, we promise.

Need some help? You can either Contact our customer service team or book in a free design consultation with me.

Thanks for reading!
Cheers, 

Mike Gubby. 

How to choose between living room blinds, curtains and shutters.

A living room is a place we go to connect, relax, and unwind. It’s often the first room we consider when redecorating!  If you’ve just moved into a new place or you’re ready to update your living room, selecting the right window treatment will set the room’s tone.

You might choose to allow plenty of natural light to enter during the day, filtered by elegant sheer curtains or light-filtering blinds. In the evening, privacy is paramount. Stay cosy inside by closing heavier curtains or blinds. 

Stylish living room blinds.

Blinds are a practical and modern choice for busy living spaces. Easy to maintain and clean, blinds tend to blend in and complement other living room decor.

Double roller blinds allow you to let in just the right amount of light at any time of day, as you can choose between blockout and sunscreen or light-filtering blinds, depending on your needs. With this flexibility, you can’t go wrong.

If you’re looking to add modern luxury to your living room, there’s also the option to upgrade to motorised blinds.

Our custom-made, linked roller blinds allow the flexibility to use your windows and sliding doors easily while still maintaining maximum privacy and comfort inside.

Cosy curtains for all-day comfort.

Transform your living room with our custom-made blockout and sheer curtains. With no compromise on quality, our living room curtains are made with only the highest quality fabrics.

The best place to start when selecting curtains is to decide what you need them to achieve. While curtains serve to add texture and style to any room, they also need to be practical! For example, in living areas, you may want to achieve privacy during the days and evenings. Lighter fabrics and sheer curtains are practical, giving you the flexibility to design the room in your style. Install roller blinds behind them to give you nighttime privacy and insulation during summer and winter.

Blockout curtains will provide excellent protection against the winter cold and harsh summer sun and have always been a popular option for living room windows.

To help with the DIY process, I have prepared an extensive how-to video library. You’ll find information on different fabrics, and videos on how to measure your windows as well as how to install your new living room curtains. Find them on our website here.  

Tip: We highly recommend ordering free fabric samples to see the fabric before placing your order online. This will give you confidence in your colour and texture selection.

Statement living room plantation shutters.

A fantastic option for any home, plantation shutters are a classic window treatment that’s super-easy to maintain. Shutters bring architectural structure and stunning style to your space. Our shutters are designed in clear-view style, so you have the best possible view from your window when the blades are open.

Our website has plenty of handy videos and instructions to help you DIY assemble and install your shutters, allowing you to enjoy these premium products at an affordable price.

Choose the panel layout that will complement your window and place your order online. Your living room shutters are custom made to your exact specifications in just a few weeks.

What next?

If you’re in need of some inspiration, visit our gallery or Instagram page for ideas and real-life photos from our customers.  Once you’ve decided which product you prefer, make use of our free fabric samples. They will allow you to see and feel the fabrics before selecting the one you like best.

So, if you’ve got a home that could benefit from a refresh, let us help you! The DIY process is easy to follow, and it will make a world of difference to your home, we promise.

Need some help? You can either Contact our customer service team or book in a free design consultation with me.

Thanks for reading!
Cheers, 

Mike Gubby. 

Tips and tricks for cleaning your indoor blinds.

If you have chosen the sleek, clean lines of roller blinds for your home — you’ve made a great choice! Roller blinds look great in every room, adding a minimalist and modern feel to your space.

But how do you keep your roller blinds looking clean? While these durable blinds are suited to high-traffic areas and are extremely low-maintenance, over time some stains or dirt patches may start to appear.

Depending on the type of stain and the material of your blinds, there are different methods of cleaning them. Here are a few of our tried and tested ways for maintaining and restoring the cleanliness of roller blinds. That way, you can continue to enjoy their blind-ing beauty.

Why should you clean your roller blinds?

Roller blinds are a highly appealing and functional form of window covering. As they are often used in high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, they can become dirty after a while. Keeping them clean will maintain their lustre and have them working as they should. Thankfully, roller blinds are extremely easy to care for, and only require a spot clean for most marks and stains.

How to clean roller blinds.

When it comes to cleaning roller blinds, you have to be mindful of the type of fabric you’re working with, along with the severity of the stain. Most roller blinds can be cleaned easily with a duster or vacuum. Sometimes, however,  hard-to-remove stains such as dirt, makeup, bugs, and mould can leave a lasting mark that requires further attention.

Most manufacturers warn against using strong detergents and solvents, or scrubbing your blinds because it can damage the coating of the fabric, crease it or disfigure it altogether. Generally, a hand clean with a warm, damp cloth, is all that’s needed to keep roller blinds blemish-free. 

Whether you just want to do a quick touch-up or a deeper clean of your blinds, the following methods should prove effective in keeping them looking brand new.

1. Use a cloth or vacuum

For most light stains, dust, or hand marks, using a duster or soft lint-free cloth, or the dusting brush nozzle of your vacuum cleaner will do the trick. A white eraser can often be effective for removing hand marks too! Just remember to do it gently. 

Roller blinds that are coated or have a glossy surface, may also tolerate a damp cloth or sponge without any risk of discolouration. Using warm water with mild laundry detergent, spot-test an inconspicuous part first – and if it’s safe, simply dip your cloth or sponge and ring it out, before gently buffing away at the stain. Wait to let the blind dry completely before rolling it back up, as you may run the risk of mould developing if it remains damp. You can always use a hairdryer on the lowest heat setting to speed up the drying process.

For dust build-up, simply use a vacuum with the upholstery attachment. With blinds fully extended, hold the end taught toward you as you work the vacuum nozzle from bottom to top.

It’s recommended to vacuum your roller blinds at least once a month to keep them free of dust and dirt build-up.

2. Deep cleaning for stain removal

To remove tough stains from your roller blinds, a more invasive method of cleaning may be required—however, we do recommend the use of warm-soapy water rather than any commercial chemicals.

Depending on the stain and the fabric of your blinds, you may attempt spot-treating using a stain remover. Following the directions as outlined on the stain removal product, spot test first – then apply to the blemish and gently scrub using an old toothbrush.

You can then follow with a cloth soaked in warm soapy water and apply as needed.

If you are unsure what material your blinds are made of, or what type of stain remover can be used, contact your blind’s manufacturer and follow their instructions for safe stain removal.

3. Removing mould from roller blinds

Mould on blinds is common, particularly if they are suspended over a drafty window susceptible to condensation or within a damp or humid environment. Sometimes mould can appear if a window was accidentally left open during a rainstorm and didn’t have the chance to completely dry.

If you have noticed mould on your blinds, the best course of action is to dismantle them from your window and take them to a dry cleaner for professional removal.

If the mould growth is minor, you can try spot cleaning where necessary by gently scrubbing with a toothbrush. Once cleaned, hang on a drying rack to fully air dry before re-assembling.

There are also commercial mould removers available that you can use to treat mould and mildew on your blinds. Always read the label to ensure it’s safe to use on roller blinds or fabrics before using.

What next?

If you’re in need of some inspiration, visit our gallery or Instagram page for ideas and real-life photos from our customers.  Once you’ve decided which product you prefer, make use of our free fabric samples. They will allow you to see and feel the fabrics before selecting the one you like best.

So, if you’ve got a home that could benefit from a refresh, let us help you! The DIY process is easy to follow, and it will make a world of difference to your home, we promise.

Need some help? You can either Contact our customer service team or book in a free design consultation with me.

Thanks for reading!
Cheers, 

Mike Gubby. 

Here’s why sheer curtains are perfect for all styles of homes.

Sheer curtains can complement many different aesthetics. Whether you want to achieve a crisp modern style, a vintage theme or a contemporary and practical style, sheer curtains can enhance your rooms.

With sheer curtains in place, you can let in the light throughout the day while remaining comfortable within your home. Sheer curtains are one way you can express your style. If you are unsure whether sheer curtains are the best window treatment for you, it’s worth considering the benefits. Here are eight reasons why you might like to choose sheer curtains for your home.

Installing sheer curtains yourself is easy with iSeekBlinds. We’ll guide you through the process, from fabric selection to final installation.

Maintain privacy in your home with sheer curtains.

Sheer curtains create a sense of privacy indoors. Sheer curtains can create privacy in rooms facing the road or where neighbours may have visibility. Blockout roller blinds or curtains prevent neighbours from looking in at night. However, during daylight hours, you may want to benefit from natural light.

Sheer curtains have transparency that allows natural light to fill a room while preventing anyone outside from seeing in. With sheer curtains, you maintain privacy within your home during daylight hours whilst ensuring you benefit fully from natural light. At night, you’ll still need blinds or blockout curtains to create privacy — the sheer privacy effect applies when it’s brighter outdoors than inside.

Create a soft light profile in spaces for rest and work.

In Australia, the summer sun can be bright, making it very difficult to view screens or read newspapers, magazines or books. Sheer curtains soften the light as it enters, enabling you to go about your day without the harsh glare of the sun.

If you are working from home, sheer curtains can soften the light in your study or workspace so you can see your screen more easily. The beauty of sheers is that they filter the light, enabling natural light to illuminate your face during those video calls.

Create gentle waves to add movement.

Sheer curtains are more dynamic than transparent blinds. S-fold curtains add vibrancy and motion to a room. Sheer curtains with generous fullness will create elegant waves that grace the window space.

A wall of sheer curtains can add elegance while still allowing architectural features to show through. This style is perfect for covering a sliding door entrance or simply creating a striking effect along a stretch of wall space.

Sheer curtains are perfect for layering

When you need your window treatment to perform multiple functions, the best way to achieve this is to layer curtains or combine curtains with blinds.

Sheer curtains can be paired with blockout curtains to achieve a layered, luxurious look. This style is perfect for bedrooms and formal living areas.

For contemporary living spaces, try layering sheer curtains with external or internal roller blinds. Combining block-out blinds with sheers will allow you to darken the room at night and enjoy privacy during the day.

Sheer curtains add a stylish finishing touch to your interior.

Sheer curtains create a sense of softness and delicacy that a bare window space doesn’t have. Whether you choose a patterned or plain fabric, you can highlight your windows and add texture with sheer curtains.

Dark-coloured sheer curtains can provide contrast in a modern room or office space. Dark-coloured transparent fabric will provide visual contrast while creating an indoor environment that’s suitable for viewing screens. Dark sheer curtains with S-fold tracks are a modern twist on more traditional curtains, bringing softness while creating visual flow.

You can achieve elegance in every room by keeping your sheer curtains simple. Let the curtains fall gracefully to the floor in an even S-fold style, without tiebacks or frills, for a tasteful result.

Protect interior items from fading with sheer curtains.

Hanging sheer curtains in bedrooms and living spaces can help to protect your interior decor from fading in the sunlight. Sheer curtains soften the natural light, so the full force of sunlight doesn’t hit your furniture, flooring, cushions and throws.

Link your outdoor and indoor spaces.

Natural-coloured sheer curtains can create a seamless flow from outside to inside, perfect for those summer evenings or warm afternoons. Curtains don’t have to hang at the window height. You can hang sheer curtains above the window or even from the ceiling to add length. Hanging curtains higher adds the illusion of vertical space

Sheer curtains can bring romance into your home.

Last, sheer curtains provide a touch of whimsy and romance that you can’t achieve with standard blinds. Whether you choose natural coloured fabric or darker colours, the softness of sheer curtains will complement soft nighttime lighting or morning sun.

Choosing high-quality, custom-made sheer curtains can transform the ambience of your home. You can even install S-fold sheer curtains yourself for a DIY transformation of your living spaces.

What next?

If you’re in need of some inspiration, visit our gallery or Instagram page for ideas and real-life photos from our customers.  Once you’ve decided which product you prefer, make use of our free fabric samples. They will allow you to see and feel the fabrics before selecting the one you like best.

So, if you’ve got a home that could benefit from a refresh, let us help you! The DIY process is easy to follow, and it will make a world of difference to your home, we promise.

Need some help? You can either Contact our customer service team or book in a free design consultation with me.

Thanks for reading!
Cheers, 

Mike Gubby. 

Rebecca says…

We are so happy with our iSeekBlinds Bali Snow s-fold sheer curtains. We have just under 8m altogether in our living and dining rooms and they have completely transformed the look and feel of the room. I just love how they provide softness, texture and also add movement to the room. Our overall experience with iSeekBlinds was faultless. They were incredibly easy to measure and install and the customer service provided was above and beyond. Thank you iSeekBlinds, they look amazing and we are thrilled with our purchase.

Sheer Fabric: Bali Snow

A how-to guide for cleaning common curtain types.

Taken the plunge and invested in some new curtains? Considering buying some new curtains and wondering what kind of curtains are the easiest to keep clean? Curtains are a huge part of the look and feel of your home, and even though they are not an item you might think requires regular cleaning, treating them well and giving them some TLC, will keep them looking fresh and beautiful for many years to come. 

In this handy guide, we are going to go into the finer points of how to clean your curtains, and then provide you with some advice on what styles of curtains will work best for your home.

Looking for high-quality curtains? Curtains from iSeekBlinds are your first choice for premium Australian-made curtains. Contact our friendly team today to discuss your options or to ask questions. 

Cleaning your blackout curtains.

Blackout curtains are an obvious choice for many homeowners who want to enjoy privacy and a reduction in sunlight, without compromising on the style and aesthetic appeal of a high-quality curtain. Blackout, or blockout, curtains are named because they eliminate sunlight from a room by the nature of their construction.

Many blackout curtains are made from thick fabric and have a durable acrylic coating on the back to achieve maximum insulation. Some blackout curtains are not able to be machine washed, and so require hand washing instead. 

Cleaning blackout curtains requires a gentle approach:

• Get a gentle fabric cleaning solution or some diluted sugar soap. Soak a foam sponge in the mixture and then wring it out well.
• You can either spot clean or give your curtains a full going-over if you prefer.
• For a full clean, start from the top of each curtain, wiping the front and back of the curtains, ensuring you focus on any areas where the curtains touch the floor as these spots will be particularly dirty.
• Keep the bucket of cleaning solution fresh by changing it whenever it looks dirty. You don’t want to undo all of your hard work by smearing dirt onto your clean curtains!
• Depending on what type of curtain fabric you have, you may be able to pop your curtains in the wash — ensuring they are on a very gentle setting and low temperature.
• Speak to one of our friendly team about washing your blackout curtains to find out what will work best for you.

Cleaning your sheer curtains.

Sheer curtains add style, elegance, and aesthetic appeal to any living space or formal area. A sheer curtain is not going to add a whole lot of privacy, but what it lacks in privacy it makes up for in appeal. Sheers are a great addition to an existing blockout curtain where you want to provide daytime privacy without blocking out a view or sunlight. Many people choose to put sheer curtains on the second level of their home facing out to a view, or to their backyard. You may also want to combine a sheer curtain with a blind or other more private option. That way, you can enjoy a sheer curtain when you want one but also benefit from more seclusion when you need it. 

Cleaning your sheer curtains is a fairly straightforward task, provided you are able to machine wash them on a delicate setting. Otherwise, a spot clean or hand wash is a safer, more gentle option. 

Here are our top tips: 

• Hand washing is the safest option for sheers, as the fabrics are often quite delicate. 
• If machine washing your sheer curtains, opt for a cool or cold wash and use the most gentle setting possible.
• Do not leave your curtains too long between washes. Dirt and dust will build up on the fabric and the natural oils present in the dirt will begin to break down the delicate fabric.
• Set yourself a reminder on a calendar or make a note to wash curtains once every four-to-six months. That way your sheer curtains always look their best.
• Do not tumble dry your sheer curtains — use a flat or line drying method and ensure you take your curtains out of the machine as soon as they are done.

Cleaning your curtain tracks.

Cleaning curtain tracks is commonly known as the bane of any cleaner’s existence. These pesky grooves often accumulate a range of dust and debris and it is difficult to get the right tool to clean your curtain tracks. We have a range of suggestions:

• Buy some large pipe cleaners from your local fabric store and bend these into the shape of your curtain tracks to really get a good clean.
• Make up a mixture of diluted gentle detergent and dip the pipe cleaner into the solution to dislodge any stubborn dirt.
• Use a dry pipe cleaner to go over the curtain tracks again to ensure you haven’t missed any areas.
• Again, as with any other cleaning job, it is important to stay on top of cleaning your curtain tracks. That way you won’t find yourself with a far bigger job than you can tackle

How to clean different curtain fabrics

Curtains made from a durable fabric are going to prove easiest to clean and will last the longest – but provided that you take care of sheer curtains well, they are going to provide you with years of enjoyment.

There are so many different curtain fabrics out there; the best way to know what works for you is to speak to someone in our team today about what kind of curtains you need and then go from there.

What next?

If you’re in need of some inspiration, visit our gallery or Instagram page for ideas and real-life photos from our customers.  Once you’ve decided which product you prefer, make use of our free fabric samples. They will allow you to see and feel the fabrics before selecting the one you like best.

So, if you’ve got a home that could benefit from a refresh, let us help you! The DIY process is easy to follow, and it will make a world of difference to your home, we promise.

Need some help? You can either Contact our customer service team or book in a free design consultation with me.

Thanks for reading!
Cheers, 

Mike Gubby. 

—

Seven handy tips for decorating with Plantation Shutters.

Plantation shutters are perfect for open plan living areas, living rooms, kitchens and even wet areas of your home. Plantation shutters not only give you a beautiful result, but they also help you to achieve better energy efficiency within your home.

Our plantation shutter kits are easy to DIY install — so you get the classic style you’re after without a the hefty price tag!

If you’re new to plantation shutters, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll tell you why we love them and share ideas on how to style your plantation shutters — here are just a few to inspire you.

1. Easy, breezy style that suits any home.

Plantation shutters are an ideal window treatment for Australian homes. Their tropical style suits our climate and outdoor lifestyle and brings a strong architectural aesthetic to both the inside and outside of the home.

Plantation shutters offer the ultimate in flexibility, giving you options to control the amount of light, air and heat entering your room, along with the level of privacy you require.   

When the blades are open, plantation shutters allow air and light to flow through your home – great for those lovely summer days! And you can capture cooling breezes at night whilst still retaining privacy by tilting the blades to the angle you require.

2. Put shutters on every window in the room.

Plantation shutters are a great choice for any room of the home but are especially suited to living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms and laundries.  

Installing shutters on each window in a room ensures consistency and design flow. Each shuttered room will feel complete, cohesive and full of character, and look beautiful too!

Plantation shutters are also a smart choice for those with pets — when you tilt shutters to let the light in, they’ll still prevent your pets from seeing passers-by and breaking the quiet. Or better still, design your shutters with a split tilt, so you can have the top open and the bottom closed.

3. Combine shutters with curtains or drapes.

Shutters are extremely versatile and the perfect partner for other window treatments. So remember, you aren’t limited to just one type of window treatment on your windows!

Plantation shutters don’t completely block out the light. If you’re planning to add them to bedroom windows, you’ll need blackout curtains as well. Ceiling-mounted blackout curtains work well with plantation shutters, allowing easy access to the windows and darkening the room at night.

For older homes with 1950’s style windows, plantation shutters can add architectural shape and modern style. In living areas, adding curtains alongside shutters brings softness. You can even pair plantation shutters with sheer curtains. With the shutters tilted and windows open, sheer curtains provide movement and beauty to your room.

4. Enhance the size of the room.

One of the best things about plantation shutters is that your room will feel both cosy and spacious — a perfect combination!

Brilliant white plantation shutters ensure light enters and bounces around the room while providing privacy. With plantation shutters in place, you may find you don’t require as much overhead lighting.

Using lamps in your shuttered rooms makes the rooms feel larger. An expansive sense of space matters, especially if you spend more time indoors in smaller homes and apartments. 

5. Coordinate furniture and decor.

Our PVC plantation shutters are a brilliant white, designed to brighten and open any room. The plantation shutters’ timeless style will pair neatly with your prints, paintings, curtains and decor.

Whether you have a minimalist or Hamptons-style interior, or a more decorative one, plantation shutters can match any style or colour scheme.

Shutters can be a feature element in the room. You can hang artwork alongside the shutters for a tasteful, well-lit display that seamlessly coordinates with your throws, cushions and furniture. 

6. Use plantation shutters in wet areas or storage areas.

The best part about having plantation shutters custom-made is that you can install them anywhere to complete the style of your home.

Our PVC plantation shutters are popular for wet areas of your home, such as the laundry, bathroom or kitchen. Unlike wooden plantation shutters, these sturdy shutters are resistant to humidity and moisture. You can make a strong design statement even in these functional rooms!

You can even extend your plantation shutters to storage areas within your home. For example, you might use plantation shutters to hide an open laundry or wardrobe. Plantation shutters can also fill a void in a wall, breaking up an open-plan space with multiple purposes.

7. Less is more when it comes to panel layout.

Having your plantation shutters custom-made means you can select the exact layout that will enhance your windows. If you aren’t sure what to choose, always opt for the least complex design!

The first step in selecting your panel layout is to follow the window. Following the window will ensure all your windows open seamlessly to let in the fresh air, and your room will have a natural flow.

When selecting your panel layout, consider how the shutters will look from both inside and outside your home. An uncomplicated panel layout will provide the most aesthetically pleasing exterior to give you the full style benefits! Use our handy panel layout chart to guide you, and of course refer to our how-to-measure videos too for more tips and tricks.

What’s next?

If you’re in need of some inspiration, visit our gallery or Instagram page for ideas and real-life photos from our customers.  Once you’ve decided which product you prefer, make use of our free fabric samples. They will allow you to see and feel the fabrics before selecting the one you like best.

So, if you’ve got a home that could benefit from a refresh, let us help you! The DIY process is easy to follow, and it will make a world of difference to your home, we promise.

Need some help? You can either Contact our customer service team or book in a free design consultation with me.

Thanks for reading!
Cheers, 

Mike Gubby. 

How to reuse and recycle old roller blinds.

Roller blinds are a household item that you use each day to darken rooms, add privacy or filter the sunlight. Exposed constantly to the harsh Australian sunlight, it’s only natural that roller blinds will slowly deteriorate over a long period of time, particularly if they are not of good quality.

Are your old roller blinds due for a refresh? We have high-quality, durable custom roller blinds that you can DIY install and save money in the process.

When you replace your old roller blinds with a newer, more effective window treatment, your old roller blinds may not need to go to hard rubbish. There are lots of ways you can up-cycle or recycle unwanted roller blinds.

Here are some ways you can give old roller blinds a second life.

1. Give away blinds that are in good condition

If your old roller blinds are still useable and you are upgrading to achieve a particular look, someone else may benefit from your unwanted blinds.

Research nearby charitable organisations, op shops or housing providers to find out where old binds are accepted. A trip to the op shop could also be an opportunity to clear out any other items you aren’t using.

You may already know someone who could use the blinds. Be sure to remove the old blinds and transport them carefully to the new location.

2. Start a craft project

Roller blinds come in a variety of versatile fabrics that are suitable for other purposes. Depending on the fabric type, you can use old roller blind fabric in many craft applications. The only limit is your imagination!

If you aren’t crafty yourself, the local primary school may be able to use your old roller blinds for a class project. Roller blind fabric is sturdy, making it perfect as an art canvas, cut up to make decorative bookmarks, or to use in other designs.

3. Make a mat from old roller blinds

One practical and creative use for roller blind fabric is to make it into a durable rag rug for indoors or outdoors. Roller blinds are often neutral colours, so the rug or mat you make will complement any decor.

Here’s a quick guide to the steps:

• Remove the fabric from the rods and opening mechanisms.
• Cut fabric into strips.
• Sew the strips together to create several long strips of fabric. You can roll this into a ball to store it.
• Braid the joined strips of fabric together.
• Sew the braid into a circle or another shape to suit your needs!

Rather than braiding the fabric, you could try weaving it instead. Weaving may be easier if the material is quite stiff, and the final result will look great as a doormat. You might you may need a double layer for a finished mat.

Weaving or braiding a mat or rug is just one option for using old roller blind fabric. It’s a much better solution than putting the blinds into hard waste and a rewarding project too.

You can browse craft ideas online for more inspiration on re-using unwanted fabric.

4. Create labels for storage

For items stored in the shed, such as gardening tools, DIY tools or ski gear packed in boxes, paper labels may not last. It can be frustrating to look into every single box to find what you need.

For storage in a carport or shed, using roller blind fabric for the labels can ensure your items are easy to find, even after time has passed. Roller blind fabrics are generally durable, making them suitable for use in both outdoor and indoor applications.

The durable polyester and acrylic fabric of your old roller blinds is ideal for labelling storage boxes. With labels in place, you can find what you need right away.

5. Mark plants in the garden

While it can be fun to try to remember what you’ve planted in the garden, sometimes you want to know which plants are where. Old roller blind material can be cut up and used to label your plants or seeds.

You’ll need a permanent marker to write the name of each plant on the strip and some small stakes to attach the material to as well.

6. Make reusable shopping bags

Do you find that you never have enough bags at the supermarket? Old roller blinds can be shaped into handy carry bags and decorated to suit your style.

Cut the fabric to the correct size and shape that will form the bag. You could use a shopping bag you already have as a guide.

To add a pop of colour, you might want to cover the roller blind with fabric. You might cut a piece of fabric to size and sew the edges with a hem that creates a neat finish.

Then sew the sides of the bag into the shape you want, and don’t forget to add handles!

What next?

If you’re in need of some new roller blinds, visit our gallery or Instagram page for ideas and real-life photos from our customers.  Once you’ve decided which product you prefer, make use of our free fabric samples. They will allow you to see and feel the fabrics before selecting the one you like best.

So, if you’ve got a home that could benefit from a refresh, let us help you! The DIY process is easy to follow, and it will make a world of difference to your home, we promise.

Need some help? You can either Contact our customer service team or book in a free design consultation with me.

Thanks for reading!
Cheers, 

Mike Gubby.