How much of the slat you remove depends on the size you require, so your first step is to measure the window.
Perhaps you may have measured incorrectly, or the brand you purchased may not offer customised sizing to suit your window. Adjusting the blinds to fit will cost you money, unless you have a few items around the home. Follow the below steps to alter your Venetian blinds at home.
Identify the parts of the blind. There are two cords; the lift cord goes through the centre of each slat while the ladder cord weaves around each slat, going through the back and the front. The last slat, called the bottom rail, is held in place by a couple of plugs.
Release the string ladders by removing these plugs. Use a screwdriver if necessary. Untie the now visible knotted lift cord and take out the plugs. Don't lose them.
Measure the length of the window and mark the position of the bottom slat. It should sit just above the windowsill.
Remove the lift cord from the slats below the windowsill.
Remove the bottom rail and all the slats below the windowsill. Re insert the bottom rail between the ladder cords at the correct length.
Push the lift cords through the holes in the bottom rail. Slide the bottom rail plugs to form a knot. Make sure the ladder cords are even so the venetian blind hangs straight.
Cut the ladder cords several slats below the bottom rail to ensure there is enough remaining cord to plug into the holes in the bottom rail.
Raise or lower the knot in the lift cord to achieve the exact height required.
Insert the excess lift and ladder cords in the holes in the bottom rail, then insert the plugs. Use a rubber mallet if you need to.
You can trim the slats if the blind is too wide, but it is important to remember to cut evenly from both ends. This will ensure the cords which control the blinds are evenly spaced. For example, if you want to make the blind slats 20mm shorter, cut 10mm of each end.
How much of the slat you remove depends on the size you require, so your first step is to measure the window. For an inside mounted Venetian, you should allow 10mm clearance. Before you start cutting a Venetian blind it's a great idea to first check out how to give them a good clean to make the job less painful.To adjust the width of the blind, follow the below steps.
Measure the headrail and cut it to length. Use a hacksaw to cut metal or plastic venetian blinds, or a tenon saw for wood.
Line up the ends of the slats with the headrail, then bundle them securely using a rubber band at both ends. Use masking tape to cover the ends to prevent splitting or chipping.
Mark the desired length of the slat with a pencil, then slide the slats away from the headrail.
Use a table saw or circular saw to cut through the slats and the bottom rail. A strong set of shears may be sufficient to cut through plastic.
Clean and trim the ends of the slats with sandpaper.