NOTE: If you place an order for ANY window coverings from Select Blinds, be sure you use my special link for the best possible discount! Plus if you also use the code INSP1RE5 you’ll receive an additional 5% off the best price offered.
How you dress your windows can transform a room. Window coverings add texture, definition and personality, and they layer beautifully into a room’s decor. I often get questions about the bamboo blinds and curtains in my home, so here are the most frequently asked questions and answers to help you choose and install similar treatments.
Where are the blinds mounted — inside or outside the frame?
The blinds in the guest room and master bedroom are outside-mount roll-up bamboo blinds attached to the wall. These particular roll-up shades were purchased from a big-box store and arrived with hooks already attached, making them very easy to hang directly on the wall. Outside mounting works well when you want to make windows look taller: I hung the blinds near the ceiling to visually increase window height. When ordering, choose a shade slightly wider than the window opening so it covers the edges; some store-bought styles can be trimmed to size.
For windows with attractive trim and deep sills, inside-mount shades are often the better choice. My family room and kitchen blinds were custom ordered online to fit inside the window frame; these were measured and cut to size so they sit neatly within the trim.
Do you use one long blind for wide windows or several smaller ones?
For a wide opening made of multiple windows, I use individual blinds for each window rather than one large continuous shade. In the family room I have three separate blinds with three headers so each window functions independently. One large, heavy shade across several windows can be awkward to operate. On the kitchen slider we have two panels that operate independently but share a single header for a unified look.
Are bamboo blinds good for privacy and light control?
Bamboo shades come with options. You can order liners for greater light control and privacy; unlined shades allow some light to filter through and will offer partial privacy. I chose unlined shades in many rooms because total blackout wasn’t necessary for our needs, but adding a liner is a simple way to increase privacy.
Do the blinds roll or fold?
It depends on the style. Some bamboo shades function like Roman shades and fold up in soft layers, while others roll up. The roman-style weave folds into tiers; the simpler roll-up styles roll into a neat tube at the top.
Do your blinds have cords?
Yes, most of my shades use cords. When ordering, consider cord placement and whether you prefer cordless or continuous-loop options — especially important for homes with young children or pets. If ordering again, I would review lift options more carefully.
Where did the guest room curtains come from and how many panels did you use?
The guest room curtains were purchased as multiple panels. I ordered six panels total to create a full, draped look — three panels for each side. Narrow, lightweight panels benefit from using more panels to achieve the fullness and coverage you want. Ordering extra panels also avoids worries about pattern matching across seams.
How did you hang curtains across a wide wall?
For the guest room I used one long extendable curtain rod with multiple brackets to support the span. The brackets are spaced along the rod and the panels are arranged so the rod and brackets are visually hidden by the fabric. Using several brackets prevents sagging and keeps a long installation looking neat.
Why use short stationary rods in some rooms instead of functional rods?
In rooms with decorative trim, sometimes a short stationary rod is less visually intrusive. In the family room I wanted to keep focus on the trim and avoid another prominent horizontal line, so I used a short rod purely for aesthetic framing. In the dining room a tension cafe rod tucked behind molding is effectively hidden and provides the look I wanted without interrupting the trim.
How do you choose curtain length?
Curtain length depends on fabric, style and the room’s proportions. Heavier fabrics typically hang just to the floor, while lighter fabrics can puddle a little for a softer look. Personal preference and the room’s overall style guide the final decision. If a look seems off, adjust and re-evaluate — proportions should feel balanced in the space.
How high and wide should curtains be hung?
A common guideline is to hang curtains higher and wider than the window to make windows appear larger and let in more light when open. However, consider the proportions of your walls and trim. If hanging very high creates a large blank space above the window that looks awkward, bring the rod down a bit. Aim to mount rods close to the outer edge of trim or slightly beyond to maximize light and create the illusion of larger windows.
PHEW — that’s a lot of info, but I hope it answers many of your questions about bamboo blinds and curtains. If I missed anything or you have additional questions, feel free to ask!
NOTE: If you place an order for ANY window coverings from Select Blinds, be sure you use the special link for the best discount and use code INSP1RE5 for an extra 5% off.
Have a great day, everybody!
