Venetian Blinds
Keep the Sunshine Out Fashionably
For a classic window treatment that has stood the test of time, consider venetian blinds. These slatted window coverings were originally developed in Venice, Italy, back in the 1600's. The blinds were used to block the sunlight, which reflected from the canals of the city into homes. Venetian blinds are excellent for shutting out sunshine while admitting cooling breezes through open windows. Fifty years ago, venetian blinds were usually made of white metal 2-inch slats with controls made of cotton cords that dangled dangerously. Now, however, dangling cords have been replaced with remote control operation, and venetian blinds are available in a wide range of fashionable materials, colors, and slat sizes.
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For example, venetian blinds with 1-inch wide or 1/2-inch wide slats are known as
mini blinds
and micro blinds respectively. In some instances, venetian blinds have 3-inch slats as well. Materials available include elegant genuine hardwoods finished in a variety of colors, and faux wood materials that mimic the more expensive genuine
wood venetian blinds.
Plastics are often used, and are available in a wide range of decorator colors for matching to valances, sheers, drapes, or other components of a well-dressed window. Of course, the classic white metal venetian blinds are still available, and are still appropriate for schools, hospitals, offices, and industrial settings.
Venetian blinds can be used in conjunction with curtains or alone depending on your style of decorating. Often venetian blinds are topped with a simple valance, perhaps of lace or other material. For combining with drapes or other coverings, venetian blinds need to be mounted using an inside mount. This means the blind is mounted inside the window frame. An outside mount means that the blinds will cover the window frame, and works best when you need to cover an unattractive window frame or you choose to use the blind without other window dressing elements. For a more complete look, choose Venetian blinds with fashion tapes attached, or you can attach your own.
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