cut to fit bamboo shades

How To Create Your Patio Oasis Using Exterior Shades

/ Super Admin
Outdoor Oasis with Solar Shades
Patio setup with exterior solar shades

What does the term “patio oasis” bring to mind for you? You’ll find trending the idea of taking any kind of space, from an empty, sun-scorched rooftop to a deserted backyard, and turning it into a lush retreat, ready for entertaining and for simply enjoying the outdoor weather when it’s nice out. 

Here are some pointers that can help set you up for a successful patio season this fall.

*Related: How to Begin Fall Patio Season Early

Setting Up Your Outdoor Patio Oasis

Home exterior patio with wooden decking and rattan sofa

How do you envision your oasis? Start by power washing the concrete / deck area. Then, you’ll want to ensure you provide yourself and guests with plenty of comfortable patio furniture offering room to stretch out. 

What about fans and / or misters to keep things cool when it’s warm outside? If you’re one that enjoys being outside during the evenings, you’ll want to consider proper lighting and bug-proofing of your space. 

Here are some suggestions to get into place as part of your oasis setup:

  • Fans and / or misters
  • String lighting / lamps / lanterns
  • Bug repellent plants (e.g., lavender and chrysanthemums)
  • Bug zapper lights / Tiki torches / citronella candles

Privacy & Shade

Are you providing enough privacy for your oasis area? Do you have enough shade?

First, you’ll want to strike an even balance between allowing sunlight in and providing shaded spots throughout your outdoor entertainment area. 

Bamboo shades (crafted using the natural fibers of the bamboo plant) and woven wood window treatments (woven using a combination of reeds, as well as bamboo, rattan, jute, and grasses to create a variety of color options) bring a natural, exotic, and eco-friendly beauty and feel to any space, indoor or out. 

Related: Bamboo and Woven Wood Shades Bring More “Japandi” Into Your Life

Layering these natural shades with window panels or drapes can also be done to minimize views from the outside while creating a truly customized look on the inside. If you do go with these shades made from natural materials, you’ll want to ensure that they are protected as much as possible from rain and moisture.

In addition to privacy, a reliable exterior solar shade will do a great job of keeping the glare out of your eyes and offering enough shade for your area, while still being able to enjoy the warmth. Also, you’ll be able to help protect your outdoor furniture and maintain your outside view.

*Related: What Does the “Openness Percentage” Mean for Solar Shades?

*Related: What is the Difference Between Solar Shades and Exterior Solar Shades? 

A Couple of Final Details

To keep things comfy and toasty on cooler nights, set up one or more propane heaters. A firepit for ambient effect also provides plenty of warmth. 

Then, Don’t forget the outdoor bar area where you can reward yourself with a refreshing, cool drink after you’ve completed setting up your outdoor patio oasis!

Minding all these details will not only help you enjoy patio season to its fullest but can offer you opportunities to make this season last as long as possible.

Select Blinds Staff Recommendations for Your Outdoor Oasis

Whether or not you’re “big on social graces,” or have an abundance of “friends in low places,” perhaps you are looking for a few recommendations for your outdoor patio oasis? 

SelectBlinds staff loves offering up our selections from our different product tiers for you, to offer you excellent, customizable design solutions for any taste and budget. Spend some time window shopping to see what we have to offer!

Classic Woven Woods (Signature Tier)* 

Get your outdoor entertainment area ready to have company over and grill with these brilliant woven wood shades! Install shades where it counts while protecting your furniture from fading and discoloration. All with a nature-infused touch.

5% Classic Exterior Sheer Weave Solars (Signature Tier)*

Keep your patio or deck area cool and comfortable by blocking out harmful UV rays and adding some lovely shade to your outdoor oasis. And do so while staying true to your existing design. 

*Our Signature Tier products feature thoughtful designs in trendy styles. Made with durable materials, Signature Tier products are the perfect place to start when looking for a beyond-basic solution that is also affordable.

Luxe Modern Woven Wood Shades (Premium Tier)*

Get the natural shade you want when the sun gets to be a bit much, and let in all that beautiful sunlight whenever you like. 

Lifestyle Outdoor Motorized Shade (Premium Tier)*

Take your outdoor experience up a notch with the convenience and ease of motorized solar shades. You’ll love the gorgeous oil-rubbed valance and convenient cable tie-downs! 

*Our Premium Tier products feature lasting designs in timeless styles. Made of high-quality materials, Premium Tier products are the ideal choice for an excellent investment that’s made to last. Some upgrade features may be included.

Designer Ultimate Woven Wood Shades (Luxury Tier)*

Create the ultimate escape in your own backyard, patio, or repurposed rooftop. These timeless woven woods are just what you need for your outdoor entertainment area upgrade project, regardless of style or design.

*Our Luxury Tier products include superior design in distinct styles. Made with unique materials and quality craftsmanship. Luxury Tier products are for the homeowner looking to indulge in sophisticated customization. Some upgrade features are included.

Your Outdoor Patio Oasis Calls for the Best Customized Solutions

Our philosophy has long held that DIY Design was never meant to be done “ALL by Yourself.” For your dream home’s design, whether for indoors our outside in your back patio, we’re here to help. 

Nothing makes an outdoor patio oasis more enjoyable than attractive bamboo or exterior solar shades to keep the harmful UV rays out of your face, while keeping your patio or deck area cool. SelectBlinds is all about supporting you, all the way from start to finish. We offer you all the helpful resources you’ll need to make your life (and projects) easier, because your success is our success! Make your dream home ALL YOURS as you custom-craft it, without breaking your budget. As you sharpen those interior DIY design instincts, you will save plenty of money and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something special. 

Check out our FREE interior design consulting as just another way we can support you from start to finish. Get tips, color guidance, product recommendations, solutions to the problems you may encounter, etc. Call us today at (855) 235-3120 to take advantage of our free design consultation resources.

Free Samples. Free Shipping. Free Design Consulting. Every Day.

Only at SelectBlinds.

Go Window Shopping for the Custom Solutions You Need to Create an Amazing Outdoor Patio Oasis! >>

Why Get a Liner For Your Woven Wood Shades?

/ Super Admin

You can always expect higher quality artistry from our custom bamboo & woven wood shades.  When you compare custom-crafted woven wood shades with the off-the-shelf versions, you’ll start to notice some noticeable differences, beginning with the quality of workmanship. One factor that can add a degree of quality to your custom shades comes with adding a privacy or blackout liner. The type of liner discussed in this article is attached to the back of a window covering and is meant to face the exterior.

For starters, a liner adds a subtle, formal touch to bolster the overall aesthetic of your window treatments, not to mention a liner will enhance their functionality and how long they’ll last. Not only does a lining add some nice weight and depth to your window treatment, but it also helps it keep its shape intact and keep its crisp, unmussed appearance.  

Types of Shade Liners

Liners offer a crisper, more professional look for your window treatments, but there are also different types of liners that serve different purposes. The most common types of liners are standard/privacy liners and blackout liners. 

There are others like thermal liners, water-repellent liners, and interlining (which, in the case of fabric window coverings, like drapery or Roman shades, is inserted between the front and back of the window covering). We’ll go over standard and blackout liners here.

Standard, or Privacy Liner – A standard shade liner (often referred to as a privacy liner) usually consists of lightweight fabric (usually white or off-white) to add weight to reinforce your shade’s thickness, and create, overall, a fuller, richer window covering. The neutral white color keeps a consistent appearance for street-facing windows. Standard liners enhance the privacy offered by your window treatment, and they can also reduce incoming UV rays to help keep your furniture and interior from fading.  

Blackout Liner – These liners are ideal for bedrooms and media rooms, and are meant to block out up to 99% of incoming light and glare. Blackout liners typically come in white/off-white neutral colors, and tend to be of heavier, thicker weight. They’re great for when you want to watch your favorite movie or game, unencumbered by incoming glare, and also for weekends . . . when you might just want to sleep in!  

Room Darkening Liner – These liners are also great for bedrooms and media rooms, and you might even like one in your home office. They don’t block out as much light as a blackout liner, but you’ll still get a subdued lighting effect in your interior space. Room darkening liners also generally come in white/off-white neutral colors, and tend to be of heavier, thicker weight.

The 3 Best Things About a Shade Liner

Better Insulation

Liners on the back of your woven wood shades add an additional layer of insulation between incoming noise and your interior. This is the perfect enhancement for more quiet indoors that you’ll appreciate.

Better Light Control

More insulation on the back of your shade means fewer UV rays peeking through, and more protection for the shade itself, and for your furniture and indoor space. Keep the outside outside, and your indoors indoors.

Better Privacy Control

Shade liners are especially effective for lining window treatments made with thinner and more sheer fabrics. They can provide more privacy, especially at night.

More Personalized

In short, liners for your custom bamboo & woven wood shades (or for any other type of window treatment) add an additional degree of personalization and quality to make your window coverings more ‘yours.” 

*Related: What Is Edge Binding on Window Shades?

Select Blinds Staff Recommendations for Your Space

What would look amazing with those liners you’re considering? Some of our beautiful, custom-crafted woven wood and bamboo shades for your windows! If you’re looking for some recommendations for your home, be sure to keep on reading. We’ve made selections from each of our product tiers for you, to offer you excellent, customizable design solutions for any taste and budget. Spend some time window shopping to see what we have to offer!

Premier Woven Wood Shades (Premium Tier)*

Liven up your windows with this popular array of exotic woven woods. Naturally filter light through the unique textures, or add a privacy or blackout liner for more light and privacy control. Privacy and blackout liner upgrades available.

Premier Modern Natural Wood Shades (Premium Tier)*

Upgrade your interior aesthetic, starting with these window coverings to go from basic and boring to exotic and exciting. These lovely woven woods come in beautiful, natural materials and patterns to match any design you can dream up for your space. Privacy and blackout liner upgrades available.

*Our Premium Tier products feature lasting designs in timeless styles. Made of high-quality materials, Premium Tier products are the ideal choice for an excellent investment that’s made to last. Some upgrade features may be included.

Designer Series Woven Wood Shades (Luxury Tier)*

Level-up your interior design skills by featuring these dazzling woven woods. Choose from a wide selection of gorgeous woods ranging from light to dark neutrals. Room darkening and blackout liner upgrades available.

Designer Ultimate Woven Wood Shades (Luxury Tier)*

Create the ultimate escape in your own interior space. These timeless woven woods are just the ticket to finish off your latest home reno project, regardless of your personal sense of style and design. Room darkening and blackout liner upgrades available.

*Our Luxury Tier products include superior design in distinct styles. Made with unique materials and quality craftsmanship. Luxury Tier products are for the homeowner looking to indulge in sophisticated customization. Some upgrade features are included.

Create the Home You’ve Always Dreamed About

So you’ve decided to do a home redesign, and your vision is to create a dream home you’ll be proud of. Or, maybe you just want to redesign a single room in your house. Never fear! DIY Design never meant “Do it ALL by Yourself.” For any space, a home design upgrade should never feel intimidating. 

Nothing makes a space look warmer and more inviting than beautiful new window treatments, and Select Blinds is all about supporting you, all the way from start to finish. We offer you tons of helpful resources to make your life (and projects) easier, because we’re invested in your success! Make your dream home ALL YOURS as you custom-craft it into your dream home, without breaking your budget. As you sharpen those interior DIY design instincts, you can save yourself plenty of money in the process. 

Check out our FREE interior design consulting as just another way we can support you from start to finish. Get tips, color guidance, product recommendations, solutions to the problems you may encounter, etc. Call us today at (855) 235-3120 to take advantage of our free design consultation resources.

Free Samples. Free Shipping. Free Design Consulting. Every Day. Only at SelectBlinds.com.

Go Window Shopping Today for Custom Window Solutions to Complete Your Dream Home! >>

What is Edge Binding on Window Shades? A Select Blinds Q&A

/ Super Admin

Question: What is Edge Binding on Shades? What is Its Purpose?

Answer: Edge binding (also edge banding, edge lining) is a decorative fabric hem that runs alongside the edges of a shade (bamboo/woven wood shades or Roman shades). These edge bindings typically vary in width from one to three inches. Edge binding is not just for looks, and can also help your shade (particularly in the case of woven wood shades) perform better and outlast wear and tear.

Edge binding does not hinder your ability to choose a privacy or blackout liner.

Question: How Does Edge Binding for Shades Work?

Answer: As mentioned, edge binding is a fabric hem sewn around the edges of your shades, available in a wide selection of colors and patterns. If the edge binding isn’t an exact match to your shade’s color or pattern, it coordinates as a complementary or accent effect.

One critical function of edge binding is to help strengthen the shade’s edges, help the edges from fraying and splitting (in the case of bamboo/woven wood shades).

Question: Does Edge Binding Really Help Prevent Your Shade From Stretching?

Answer: You may or may not know that, in the case of woven wood shades, they may stretch downward and bunch up near the bottom, because of their weight. This would normally be a natural occurrence and nothing to be concerned about, but it is a factor to take into consideration. The edge-binding fabric fully wraps around to contain the shade, so as to prevent downward stretching caused by gravity. 

Question: Does Edge Binding Really Help Prevent Your Shade From Fraying?

Answer: The natural materials from which bamboo and woven wood shades are crafted, which leave the shade’s edges exposed. This casual, unfinished look might be desired by some homeowners, but it can leave the shade exposed to natural wear and tear.

Edge binding protects the edges of your shade from rubbing against surfaces and potentially fraying.

modern living room interior with furniture. 3d illustration

Question: What Kind of Interior Design Statement Can I Create With Edge Binding?

Answer: As mentioned, edge binding comes in a variety of colored and patterned fabrics intended to coordinate with your shade’s materials. For rooms that feature multiple window treatment types, you can easily tie your look all together with matching end binding fabrics for your bamboo or Roman shades. 

If your bamboo/woven wood shade’s material happens to be very textured, go with a solid colored edge binding fabric to keep things from appearing “too busy.” Color contrasts look amazing, like dark colored edge binding for lighter shades, or vice versa.  

Question: What Are Some Select Blinds Window Fashion Recommendations Featuring Edge Binding Options?

Yes, we offer an edge binding upgrade option on several of our customer-favorite products. Here are some recommendations:

Craftsman Roman Shades (Premium Tier)* 

You’ll love the look and feel of the popular Craftsman design aesthetic in these dapper Roman shades. Get your windows dolled up like a night out on the town with something elegant, bold, and unforgettable. Edge binding available in 2.5-inch width.  

*Our Premium Tier products feature lasting designs in timeless styles. Made of high-quality materials, Premium Tier products are the ideal choice for an excellent investment that’s made to last. Some upgrade features may be included.

Designer Series Woven Wood Shades (Luxury Tier)* 

Get ready to level-up your interior design cred with these dazzling woven wood shades. Choose from a wide selection of gorgeous natural textures ranging from light to dark neutrals. Edge binding available in 2-inch width.

Designer Ultimate Woven Wood Shades (Luxury Tier)*  

Create the ultimate escape in your own home with these timeless woven woods. These shades are just the ticket to finish off your latest home project, regardless of what your unique personal décor style may be. Edge binding available in 2-inch width.

Designer Reserve Roman Shades (Luxury Tier)*

Enjoy superior-quality construction and fabrics that are the hallmarks of these top-of-the-line custom window coverings. The easy cordless lift adds to the refined look of all four fold style options. Edge binding available in 2.5-inch width.

*Our Luxury Tier products include superior design in distinct styles. Made with unique materials and quality craftsmanship. Luxury Tier products are for the homeowner looking to indulge in sophisticated customization. Some upgrade features are included.

Got any more questions about edge binding? Leave it in the comments below!

Let Us Help You Get More “DIY” Into Your Dream Home Upgrade Projects! It’s A Lot Easier Than You May Have Thought!

Don’t let a home update project overwhelm you. You got this! Custom-craft your home into your dream home. No need to break the bank to do it, either. And we’re here to support you all the way from start to finish with helpful resources to make your life easier. Level up your DIY design cred, and save yourself plenty of money in the process. 

How much is peace of mind worth to you? Free interior design consulting is just another way we can support you in all your home upgrade projects. Call us today at (888) 257-1840 to tap into our free design consultation.

Free samples. Free shipping. Free design consulting. Every Day. Only at SelectBlinds.com.

Go Window Shopping for Some Beautiful New Select Blinds Window Fashions! >>

Selecting the Best Kitchen Window Treatments: Over the Sink

/ Larry Walker

By SelectBlinds

The kitchen and dining room are the heart of any home. Holidays, laughter, Sunday dinners, cooking, homework, late night chats, etc. That’s why so many of your best family stories start in the kitchen.

Custom window treatments provide a fashionable finishing touch that accents and complements the way you design your own interior spaces. Lots of opportunities to highlight with colors, patterns, and texture. Window coverings provide light control, privacy, and peace of mind.

A kitchen is a unique space, and you may have different considerations for how you decorate the windows, based on where each window is located. Your choice of window treatments offer additional opportunities for touches of softness and style in the middle of bulky, metallic appliances and smooth, hard surfaces.

Select Blinds bamboo / woven wood shades for the kitchen window
Select Blinds bamboo / woven wood shades look great in your kitchen sink window,
but be careful about water and moisture in the area.

Maybe you want kitchen window curtains. If you only have one window in your kitchen, you’ll want window coverings that let as much light as possible filter in, while still being able to maintain privacy. You may consider sheer shades. If you have a kitchen window that faces the street, privacy might be a primary concern, with incoming light also being important, but perhaps slightly less so. You may want window coverings that offer a unique view, like Top-down Bottom-up shades. Then there are those windows immediately over the sink. What looks best over them? Time to get cooking. Read on as we serve up a deeper dive into kitchen window ideas and considerations as you find what fits best with your personal style and sense of décor.

Decorative Window Coverings

If you’re thinking about a covering for a kitchen window over the sink, be extra careful that you keep the right kind of materials in mind. You can still go with stylish bamboo/woven wood shades or Roman shades, but be aware that because this area over the sink often involves water splashing, spills, etc., you might have to be extra careful to avoid water damage. Wood blinds are also at risk for getting wet and possibly warping or discoloring, but you might just love the way they look in that window over your sink. It’s always up to you, just be aware of the risks that are involved if you decide on a material that doesn’t take well to water.

Select Blinds light filtering roller shades for the kitchen window
Select Blinds light filtering roller shades allow just the right amount of light
and view into your kitchen, without compromising your privacy.

Privacy

As mentioned, privacy may be a concern if your kitchen sink window faces the street or a neighbor’s home. Roller shades may be what you’re comfortable with in terms of providing privacy, and perhaps with some light filtering functionality.

Light Control

If your kitchen sink window faces the east or west, you’ll especially want to take account of direct incoming sunlight. Direct UV rays can be harsh on your eyes, your skin, your furniture, and they can definitely crank up the heat in a room. A stylish, but heavy-duty solar shade may be what you want to employ over your sink to protect yourself and your interior while you’re doing dishes after evening summer cookouts. Solars are typically constructed of durable PVC materials, so they’ll look great and maintain that “brand new” look for a long time to come. You can also custom order them with the degree of UV blockage of your choice.

Also, consider aluminum mini blinds for your kitchen sink window. Aluminum shades built to last, with plenty of light and privacy settings.

Select Blinds Solar screens for the kitchen window
Select Blinds Solar screens help block out harsh UV rays,
while keeping your kitchen cool. They look great, too!

Functionality and Longevity

In addition to durable solar shades and aluminum blinds for your kitchen sink window, there is another excellent option for a food-prep, dishwashing area. If you love the look of real wood blinds and shutters, but can’t bear the thought of them getting wet and warped, faux wood blinds and shutters might be just the perfect find.  

Not only do they perform amazingly at maintaining light and privacy, they also look great, they’re also super easy to care for, and they’ll last forever. You can clean them with little more than soap and water as needed. Many faux wood slat constructions also feature insulation against heat and cold. The lush look and feel of real wood in your home, and their resilience ensures they’ll never warp, crack, chip, or discolor when exposed to water, food stains, or steam. And much less expensive than real wood. Low-maintenance, and no worry.

Select Blinds Faux Wood Blinds for the kitchen window
Faux wood blinds give any kitchen window a crisp look and feel,
along with privacy and light adjustments.

SelectBlinds’ Staff Recommends:

Here are some of our favorite suggestions for the window above your kitchen sink.

Remember, kitchen window treatments can serve a design/decorative function to go with your kitchen’s décor, but especially for the window over the sink, it should also be durable, provide privacy, and block out harsh UV rays. Choose whatever kind of blinds work best for you, but remember that the most functional ones for that particular window are moisture- and mold-resistant. Happy decorating!

#BlindsWeLove     #kitchenblinds

Putting the ‘BAM’ in Bamboo: 5 FAQs About Bamboo Blinds

/ Larry Walker

For more than 5,000 years, the panda-friendly bamboo plant has endured as one of the most durable, dramatic and exotic materials for interior design. Favored by high-end and DIY designers alike, bamboo and woven wood window coverings add a sense of zen and a dash of adventure to almost any decor. But before venturing into the bamboo forest, here are a few ‘FAQs’ you should know about these beautifully versatile window treatments.

1. What’s the difference between natural bamboo and woven wood blinds or shades?

Besides bamboo being edible (well, as far as pandas are concerned), bamboo window treatments are made from the natural fibers of the bamboo plant. Woven wood treatments are made from a combination of bamboo, rattan, jute, grasses and reeds to create a variety of color options. Speaking of color, good to know that seasons can change the color of these natural reeds, grasses, etc. If you’re doing more than one window, we recommend ordering or purchasing all of the blinds you’ll need for the same room at the same time to avoid possible dye lot changes.

The beauty of classic bamboo can brighten any room. Here’s a sample window treatment using our Signature Shoreline Woven Woods.

The multiple fibers that make up woven wood window treatments add a touch of texture and adventure. Here’s a sample of our Premier Cordless Woven Woods with the classic Roman style fold.

2. Are bamboo window treatments waterproof?

As much as possible, you should keep bamboo and woven wood shades in dry environments, safe from as much moisture and humidity as you can. Though made with natural materials, accumulated dampness may cause molding and even some natural decomposition.

3. Do bamboo shades provide enough privacy?

While the texture and weave of bamboo window coverings allow for some filtered light to come through naturally, you can easily control any ‘see through’ by simply adding a privacy or blackout liner. Window panels or drapes can also be used with these versatile shades to minimize views from the outside while creating a truly custom look on the inside.

Bamboo shades with privacy and blackout liners

4. Can I go cordless with bamboo?

Absolutely. The biggest trend in blinds is cordless operation, a feature you can also get with bamboo and woven wood coverings (as well as corded, if you prefer). Easily raise and lower them with a simple pull ring tucked discreetly in the bottom rail. Cordless lift also eliminates any possible ‘catching’ of traditional cords on the naturally rougher edges of these products.

5. Is bamboo a smart design choice?

Still on trend after all these years (bamboo was first used as the décor du jour in China 5,000 years ago), bamboo window treatments remain a constant go-to in the stable of many designers for many reasons:

  • Today’s hottest design trends call for natural textures, making bamboo a natural choice.
  • They’re versatile enough to complement almost any decor and available in a variety of colors.
  • Made from exotic, natural, eco friendly materials, they provide durable, long-lasting beauty.

beautiful kitchen window treatment with bamboo shades and sheers

Need another reason to choose bamboo? Check out the special price reductions we’re offering this month. Click here to see our entire selection of amazing bamboo and woven wood window treatments.