This is an interesting concept – using the colour and texture of a fabric blind to create a feature wall. I would think that we would have to secure the bottom of the blind in order to prevent any irratating sway?

The article also suggests using timber weave blinds – we use the Peter Meyer collection of timber weave materials for roman and panel glide blinds. They work particularly well as a panel glide room divider.

Check out Peter Meyer Chinois range.

I also really like fabric manufacturer Mermet’s Cachet range, it contains some wondeful colours and textures http://www.mermet.com.au/cachet/product.asp?categoryID=306

Dry Cleaning or washing is not recommended to clean either Roman or Roller Blinds To remove surface dust use a vacuum with a brush attachment. Simply vacuum once or twice a month to avoid build up of dust, it is probably easier if you can get someone to hold the blind taut and straight whilst vacuuming down to avoid creasing the fabric. A soft art eraser is very useful for removing minor marks, and very effective in the removal of fingerptints.

All roller blinds are manufactured without side hems, slight fraying may occur if handled excessively on the edges, or if the fabric rolls off into the side brackets. Try to avoid handling the fabric of your blind, always use the chain or cords to operate. Trim off any frayed section and check that your blind is not running off square.

Roller Blinds

Standard roll is when the fabric feeds from the rear of the blind. This has a number of advantages.

The fabric is closer to the glass, allowing for better light block out.

The chain is more accessible and less likely to rub on the fabric causing fraying.

 However it is sometimes necessary to reverse roll blinds, for example when fixing over sliding doors. Rolling the fabric from the front just gives that extra clearance needed to accommodate handles and bars.

With block out fabrics the light coloured block out coating is visible along the top of the roll with standard roll. Not really a problem if the front of the fabric is a light colour, but can be visually irritating if a darker or textured fabric has been used.

A reversed rolled blind, creates its own pelmet and disguises the roll underneath.

The downsides of reverse roll

It can be more awkward to get to the chain to pull the blind up, there is a chance of handling the fabric and therefore marking it. Sometimes the chain can rub the fabric causing fraying