A very elegant and easy way to change the complete look and feel of your room is by adorning its windows. Thankfully these days we have many options of doing so and the top most among them is using window blinds. These can be of many types and come in different shades, colors and textures. One variety that stands out though is Matchstick blinds. These elegant looking window covers are the next in thing and a hot property among new home-decorators. Matchstick blinds stand out from others like Vinyl and aluminum blinds for their eco-friendliness and low cost. For any one decorating their homes, Matchstick blinds are an item of must consideration.
So what are matchstick blinds? These are window coverings (blinds) that consist of a number of horizontally set smooth, uniform bamboo wood sticks. These blinds get their name because the bamboo sticks that are used are rounded just like matchsticks. However there can be some with rough, irregular sticks but those should be taken as more of an exception than a norm. These days Matchsticks blinds are also available in natural wood materials other than bamboo. These are rattan, jute and other woods woven together with naturally occurring grass.
Let us look at the technical aspects of Matchstick blinds. These have an attached pulley system. It consists of a string which threads the wood sticks together. When pulled or let go, it rolls up or down the blinds. Additionally there are strings which go along the length to keep all the individual sticks in place. The pulley system is put up at the top of the blinds so that it doesn’t show up and spoil the look of the blinds. Most blinds will come with a header section (in some cases made of bamboo itself) to cover all this up.
As far as the overall look is concerned, matchstick blinds look ethnic, organic, traditional yet modern, and blend with any setting they are put up in. These mostly come in light color woods but are now increasingly available in many different shades. These are uniformly linear on both the sides, so even as you get a beautiful look at it from inside, even those looking at it from outside will see a good sight. This can be especially useful if you have it up on the window leading to your garden. So, even while you are seated outside your home, the backside of the blind won’t be jarring to your eye. Also Matchstick blinds come in different textures. If you go for a smooth texture, it will give the room a cleaner, simpler look while a rough one will give it a natural, rustic feel of other types of french door blinds.
Most Matchstick blinds come in a size which fits most standard home windows. The stick size is mostly 1/8” in diameter, but worry not; these are also available in other sizes and you can make a choice as per your preferences. And if you are still not satisfied, here is the catch: Owing to the nature of the stick, these can be easily customized by trimming them to fit your window size.
Now a quick look at how Matchstick blinds can be easily trimmed: The first step is to bunch up the whole blind in to layers. Now measure your window to determine how much needs to be trimmed. Divide the number by two and whatever the number put marks of that at equal distance from the ends of your blind sticks. Now carefully transfer the cut mark on to each blind stick using a measuring and masking tape. Next, use a saw blade with firm hands giving out even motion to cut at the marks made previously. Now deliberately undo the masking tape and your customized blind is ready for hanging up! One note of precaution: Keep the blind cords out of your way while cutting, lest you damage them in the process.
Now let’s talk of the benefits of Matchstick blinds. First of all these blinds can offer privacy while letting enough sunshine pass through if used on French door windows or similar kinds of doors/windows. But here you must choose carefully depending on what is of utmost importance. There might be some blinds which are very tightly woven, allowing very little light to pass. So while making the selection, keep it in mind how much light is warranted and hopefully it is not compromising your privacy. Also if you use them on a patio or even a balcony it can shield you from grazing eyes of the neighborhood even while sitting in the outdoors. Another point worth considering is that these blinds provide good insulation and help in room temperature maintenance.
Let us talk innovation now. Matchstick blinds work magic on their own, but if you need something extra for your room, try using them along with other drapes, curtains and even shades. When used in the right combination, it can make your room look really sophisticated and also be everybody’s envy. And if you are the artistic kind, nothing like it; you can personalize your very own matchstick blinds. You can add a design with a stencil or hand or spray paint it according to whatever theme that your room may be complying to. You can even use your favorite colors or the dominant color of your room to create a theme. If you are using it in your child’s bedroom, draw fun characters and shapes or use pastel colors to give it a light kiddie look.
Matchstick blinds do need some maintenance just like other blinds and other home decoration things. These must be dusted regularly to avoid accumulation of excessive dirt and dust particles. One important thing to keep in mind is that bamboo is a natural material and not plastic, so it can get molds. The best solution is to keep the place moisture free and well ventilated.
Matchstick blinds are priced nominally between $15 and $ 50 per blind. So these are ideal for people looking for beautiful decoration at an affordable price. But, today a lot of people are using these just because of their chic, upscale appeal. After all, these are used in most resorts and conservatories to blend in with the natural surroundings.
