Cutting aluminium blinds to fit window
I have been wanting to put up blinds for ages, but while I may have plenty of time for other projects, there's never enough time to do my own personal fix-ups and improvements.
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I decided that it was time to get this done and took all the measurements needed before popping into Final Touches at my local Builders Warehouse.
They have a stunning selection of blinds and I had already decided that I wanted aluminium blinds for the windows. The only problem was the size - the standard sizes wouldn't fit and I just couldn't be bothered to order and wait. When I get a bee in my bonnet if I don't do it immediately it doesn't get done!
So what to do? My windows measure 1000mm across and the blinds are 1200mm, which means the blinds won't be able to fit inside the recess and are a bit too small to sit on the outside. This is where owning a Dremel MultiTool really comes in useful!
When you own a Dremel MultiTool you realise that there are so many uses for this tool apart from the obvious.
HERE'S HOW:
Measure and mark how much needs to be cut off with a permanent marker so that it is easy to see the line as you cut.
I used my Dremel MultiTool and a cutting disk to remove just over 100mm (10cm) from each side of the blinds.
GOOD TO KNOW
I cut off a both sides so that the blind would still look balanced once mounted.
Remove the plastic end caps and keep the blinds closed up tight to cut. As you cut through each side, turn the blind over to carry on cutting through.
It's a good idea to clamp the blinds to a sturdy workshop so that you can hold the Dremel MultiTool with both hands, as the disk can sometimes slip out as you work. Cover the blinds with a towel to prevent the clamp from damaging the finish.
GOOD TO KNOW
It is ABSOLUTELY essential that you wear safety glasses or goggles when cutting through metal (or any other materials). Sparks will fly!
Once you have cut right through both sides of the blind, pop a grinding stone into your Dremel MultiTool - and on low speed - lightly smooth the edges and remove any loose filings left behind. You can also use the grinding stone to make sure that the edges are perfectly level. Pop the end caps back in and hang up your blinds!