Made To Measure Blinds Vs Ready-Made Blinds 

Choosing the right blinds can make the world of difference in your home. From improving the look of a room to enhancing privacy, light control, and even energy efficiency, blinds play a surprisingly powerful role. However, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go for made to measure blinds or ready-made blinds.

At All Kinds Of Blinds (AKOB), we believe in empowering our customers with the right information; so here’s a detailed look at the differences between these two options, so that you can decide which one might be right for your space.

What Are Ready-Made Blinds?

Ready-made blinds are pre-manufactured in standard sizes and available to buy straight off the shelf or online. They’re typically mass-produced and can be a quick fix if you’re after something fast and relatively inexpensive.

Pros of Ready-Made Blinds

• Budget-Friendly: They’re generally cheaper upfront.
• Quick to Buy: No need to wait for manufacturing, just pick them up and install.
• Basic Functionality: For a quick privacy solution or light filter, they can do the job.

Cons of Ready-Made Blinds

• Limited Sizes: If your windows aren’t standard dimensions, you’ll likely need to cut or adjust the blinds which can be fiddly if you’re doing this yourself.
• Compromised Fit: Gaps on the sides or bottom reduce privacy and light-blocking efficiency.
• Less Customisation: Colour, fabric, and finish options are usually very limited.
• Shorter Lifespan: Cheaper materials often mean wear and tear may occur much sooner.

What Are Made To Measure Blinds?

As the name suggests, made to measure blinds are crafted specifically for your window dimensions and your design preferences. At AKOB, our made to measure blinds are tailor-made in our own workshop, giving you complete control over the style and functionality.

Pros of Made to Measure Blinds

• Perfect Fit: They’re made to your exact window measurements for a seamless, elegant look.
• Custom Design: Choose from a wide variety of materials, colours, linings, and operating systems.
• Better Light Control: With no awkward gaps, they’re more effective at blocking or filtering light.
• Increased Energy Efficiency: A snug fit means better insulation and temperature control.
• Enhanced Aesthetic: Custom blinds can elevate the look and feel of a space dramatically.
• Longer Lasting: High-quality craftsmanship and materials make them a longer-lasting investment.

Cons of Made to Measure Blinds

• Higher Initial Cost: Quality and customisation come at a price, though you’re likely to be happier with the finished product which can in turn extend the time that you have them in your home or office.
• Slightly Longer Wait: You’ll need to allow time for manufacturing and installation; we take the time to make sure your blinds are just right.
• Not Ideal for Temporary Spaces: If you’re renting short-term, you might not get full value from the investment.

How Is Made To Measure Different?

At AKOB, we’ve seen how transformative a well-fitted blind can be, especially in uniquely shaped or oversized windows where ready-made simply won’t do the job effectively. Whether you’re fitting Roman Blinds for a vintage property or need motorised roller blinds for a modern floor-to-ceiling apartment, custom designs ensure that you achieve the exact look you’re going for.

Made to measure is also essential for more ‘advanced’ blind solutions like:

• Blackout Blinds: For bedrooms, nurseries or home cinema rooms, exact fit is key to blocking out all streams of light.
• Blind Screen™ Products: These offer both blackout and fly screen benefits.
• Thermal Blinds: To maximise energy savings, thermal blinds need to fit flush against your window recess.
• Blindspace™ Concealed Blinds: Blinds that are hidden from view when not in use.

Don’t Compromise On Style

One of the big advantages of choosing made to measure through AKOB is the sheer range of options. Want a bold print Roman Blind for the kitchen? A minimalist grey Roller Blind with smart home control? Or perhaps a sleek Venetian in a wood that matches your flooring? With hundreds of fabrics, finishes and operating systems, your window treatments can become a stand-out feature, not an afterthought.

Plus, made to measure gives you the option of adding:

• Thermal lining: For improved energy efficiency
• Blackout lining: For complete darkness
• Motorisation or Home Automation: For convenience
• Child-safe systems: For complete peace of mind

Why Expert Fitting Matters

Another often-overlooked difference between made to measure and ready-made blinds is installation. Ready-made blinds are DIY by default, but unless you’re handy with a drill and a spirit level, the results can be underwhelming.

With AKOB’s made to measure blinds, we offer:

• Professional measuring and consultation: To get things just right
• Skilled installation: By experienced fitters
• A clean, polished finish: That’s functional and beautiful

Long-Term Value

Whilst ready-made blinds might seem cheaper initially, they can be a false economy. Poor fit, lower quality materials and tricky installations can lead to quicker replacements and more hassle.

Made to measure blinds, on the other hand, are a long-term investment. They can significantly add value to your home, enhance energy efficiency, and hide unsightly or tired windows. In fact, many of our customers at AKOB return to us years later, saying their custom blinds are still going strong, and that they wouldn’t go back to store-bought again.

The AKOB Difference

When you choose made to measure blinds from All Kinds Of Blinds, you’re not just buying window coverings, you’re investing in our years of craftsmanship and products that are built to last. We are genuinely passionate about what we do, and have been since 1999.

We offer: 

• In-home consultation and measuring 
• Free expert advice 
• A huge range of styles and fabrics 
• Optional home automation
• Professional fitting with clean-up included

Made To Measure Blinds Vs Ready-Made Blinds – Which Should You Choose?

If you’re in a hurry, on a tight budget, or working with a temporary space, ready-made blinds might do the trick for now.

But if you want a product that:

• Fits perfectly
• Performs brilliantly
• Matches your style
• Improves energy efficiency
• And lasts for years…

…then made to measure is worth every penny.

Thinking Of Upgrading Your Windows? 

Book your free home survey or visit us at one of our three stores to discover how made to measure blinds can transform your home.