Roman blinds bring elegance and warmth to any space with their soft fabric folds and tailored appearance. However, if they hang too low or pool on the windowsill, they can look untidy and make operation difficult. Shortening your Roman blinds ensures a neat, balanced look while maintaining smooth folding when raised.
Before you begin
Roman blinds are constructed differently from roller or vertical blinds — their design includes horizontal rods, cords, and rings that create those signature pleats. Because of this, shortening requires a careful approach to preserve the structure and alignment. Before making any changes, fully lower the blind and measure the excess length you wish to remove.
If your blinds are custom-made or lined with blackout fabric, it’s wise to consult experts such as Roman blinds with fitting service for professional guidance before trimming.
Step-by-step guide to shortening Roman blinds
- Fully lower the blind: Let the fabric fall naturally so you can assess its full length and how much needs removing.
- Remove the blind from the brackets: Unhook the blind carefully from the top rail or headrail.
- Detach the cords: Untie or unclip the cords from the bottom rings, noting their original arrangement so you can reattach them later.
- Locate the rods and lining: Turn the blind face down and identify the fabric channels that hold the horizontal rods.
- Trim the fabric: Measure the new desired length, mark a straight line, and cut carefully through both the face fabric and lining, ensuring a clean edge.
- Recreate the bottom hem: Fold and sew a new hem (around 3–5 cm) to form a pocket for the bottom rod or weight bar.
- Reattach the cords and rings: Thread the cords back through the rings in their original pattern and tie securely.
- Rehang and test: Once refitted, raise and lower the blind to check that the folds sit evenly.
Common issues and how to fix them
If the blind doesn’t fold evenly, check that each cord is reattached to the correct ring sequence. Uneven hems or rod channels can cause creases, so ensure everything is aligned before sewing. If you’ve cut through a blackout lining, seal the new edge to prevent fraying.
For delicate fabrics or intricate designs, it’s best to trust the task to professionals offering Roman blinds with fitting service who can resize the blinds precisely without damaging the lining or structure.
When to call in the professionals
Roman blinds are more complex than most other blind types due to their layered construction. If your blind includes interlining, blackout fabric, or motorisation, professional adjustment is the safest choice. The experienced team at Kelly’s Blinds can shorten, align, and reinstall your blinds with perfect craftsmanship.
What to do next
If your blinds are too long or need professional resizing, explore Roman blinds with fitting service for expert assistance. A precise fit will enhance both the beauty and functionality of your window coverings.
FAQ – How to Shorten Roman Blinds?
Can I shorten Roman blinds myself?
Yes – but take care to preserve the cords, rods, and lining structure to keep the folds neat.
Do I need to sew after cutting the fabric?
Yes – always hem the new edge to prevent fraying and to secure the bottom rod.
What if my Roman blinds are blackout-lined or motorised?
These styles should be adjusted professionally to maintain light control and avoid damaging internal components.
