How to Make a Roman Blind Using a Kit

Roman blind kits are one of the easiest ways to achieve a professional finish when making your own blinds. They provide all the essential fixings in one package, from the headrail to the cords, saving you time and ensuring everything works together smoothly. At Terrys, we offer a range of Roman blind kits, including corded and cassette options, so you can choose the right style for your home.

This guide explains the different types of kits available, how to cut them down to size, and step-by-step instructions on fitting and using both corded and cassette Roman blind kits.

Can Roman Blind Kits Be Cut to Size?

Yes, Roman blind kits can be cut down to fit your window perfectly. Most windows do not match the exact size of a kit, so trimming is often part of the process. Both the headrail and bottom bar can be reduced in length with a hacksaw or similar tool, while the rods can be cut using a small saw or even heavy-duty scissors, depending on the material.

When cutting, always measure twice to avoid mistakes. After trimming, smooth any rough edges so cords and fabric move freely without catching. Our cut-to-size Roman blind kits are designed to be user-friendly, making adjustments simple – even for those new to DIY blinds.

Different Types of Roman Blind Kits

At Terrys, we stock several types of Roman blind kits to suit different preferences and levels of experience:

Corded Roman Blind Kits

These traditional kits use a cord and cleat system. You raise and lower the blind by pulling cords which run through small rings sewn onto the lining. Corded kits are simple, reliable, and cost-effective, making them ideal for smaller blinds or lighter fabrics. For guidance on fitting a corded Roman blind kit, refer to our Roman blind fitting guide.

Cassette Roman Blind Kits

Our PVC and aluminium cassette kits use a headrail with a built-in mechanism, so the blind attaches neatly with hook-and-loop tape. Instead of loose cords, the system uses sidewinder controls with a chain, making it easier to operate, especially on larger blinds. They give a more modern finish and are popular where ease of use and durability are priorities.

Each kit includes essential Roman blind fixings such as rods, bottom bars, cord guides, and safety features. Choosing between them comes down to preference – corded kits are budget-friendly and traditional, while cassette kits offer a sleeker, more contemporary solution.

How to Use a Cassette Roman Blind Kit

Cassette Roman blind kits simplify the process by combining many fixings into the headrail itself, giving you a neat, professional system that is quick to install and smooth to use.

Step 1: Measure and Trim the Hardware

Measure the cassette headrail, bottom bar, and rods against your window size. If they need shortening, cut them with a fine-toothed hacksaw and smooth any sharp edges.

Step 2: Choose Your Fixing Method

Decide whether the universal brackets will be top-fixed into the recess, face-fixed to the wall, or side-fixed. Pick the option that best suits your window and any obstructions.

Step 3: Mark Up and Level

Hold the brackets in position and mark the fixing holes. Use a spirit level to ensure the bracket positions are perfectly level. An uneven headrail will stop the blind folding correctly.

Step 4: Fix the Brackets

Drill, plug, and screw the brackets into place. Recheck they are aligned before moving on.

Step 5: Clip in the Cassette Headrail

Offer the cassette up to the brackets and click it securely into place so it locks in.

Step 6: Prepare the Fabric Panel

Sew rod pockets into the lining and insert the lightweight rods. Slide the weighted bottom bar into its hem channel.

Step 7: Add the Hook-and-Loop Tape

Sew the supplied hook-and-loop tape along the top edge of the blind panel, matching the tape on the cassette rail so the two will mate cleanly.

Step 8: Attach the Fabric to the Cassette

Centre the panel and press the top edge firmly onto the cassette’s tape so the fabric is held securely but can still be removed for cleaning.

Step 9: Set the Control Side

The cassette uses a sidewinder chain. Position the chain on the side that is most convenient, following the kit’s instructions.

Step 10: Test the Operation

Raise and lower the blind several times. Check the travel is smooth and that the rods create even folds as the fabric stacks.

Step 11: Dress the Folds

If the pleats look uneven at first, “train” them by raising and lowering a few times, then leave the blind stacked for a few hours to set the folds.

Step 12: Fit the Safety Device

Install the supplied chain tensioner to the wall or recess so the chain is held under tension and cannot form a loop. This is essential for compliance with UK child safety legislation.

Final Checks

Confirm fixings are tight, the headrail is level, the fabric is centred, and nothing fouls the operation. Your cassette Roman blind is ready to use.

Corded vs. Cassette Roman Blind Kits: Which Should You Choose?

Both corded and cassette Roman blind kits include everything you need to make a professional-looking blind, but the systems work slightly differently and suit different needs. Corded Roman blind kits are the traditional option. They are budget-friendly, simple to install, and reliable for everyday use. By pulling the cords, the blind lifts in neat pleats supported by rods. They are a great choice for smaller or medium-sized blinds, lighter fabrics, or anyone who prefers a classic look.

Cassette Roman blind kits offer a more modern finish. The blind attaches neatly to the cassette headrail with hook-and-loop tape, and a sidewinder chain raises and lowers the fabric smoothly. Cassette kits are especially useful for larger blinds or heavier fabrics, where a corded system might struggle. They also make it easier to remove the blind for cleaning.

If you are making a single, smaller blind, a corded kit may be the simplest and most cost-effective option. For wide windows, heavier materials, or if you would like smoother operation with a chain mechanism, a cassette Roman blind kit is likely the better choice.

Why Choose a Roman Blind Kit from Terrys?

Roman blind kits take the hassle out of sourcing individual components. At Terrys, our kits come complete with all the fixings you need, including rods, bottom bars, headrails, and safety devices. They are easy to cut to size, suitable for both lined and unlined blinds, and designed to give you professional results even if you are new to making blinds.

Whether you prefer the simplicity of a corded kit or the modern convenience of a cassette Roman blind kit, you will find everything you need in one package. With clear instructions and built-in safety features, they are the perfect starting point for creating stylish, made-to-measure Roman blinds at home.