Woven wood shades instantly add warmth and organic texture to a home. However, because they are made from natural materials like bamboo, grasses, and reeds, getting the fit right is critical. Unlike fabric shades, natural materials have unique quirks.
In this guide, we will cut through the noise and show you exactly how to measure for a perfect fit—avoiding the expensive mistake of ordering the wrong size.
1. Decide: Inside or Outside Mount?
Before you touch a tape measure, you must decide how the shade will sit.
Inside Mount (The Built-In Look)
The shade sits inside the window frame. This is the most popular choice for a clean, custom look.
- Pros: Cleaner look; doesn't cover decorative molding.
- Requirements: You need enough window depth (usually at least 1-2 inches) to mount the brackets.
- Note: There will be a small "light gap" on the sides to allow the shade to move.
Outside Mount (The Problem Solver)
The shade mounts on the wall above the window or on the trim itself.
- Pros: Makes windows look taller and wider; blocks more light; hides ugly molding.
- Requirements: Ideal if your window frame is too shallow for an inside mount.
Drill-Free Installation
Cordless option
Eco-friendly woven
Motorized Option2. The Tool Checklist
Do not use a cloth tape measure (like for sewing). It stretches and will give you the wrong numbers.
- Steel Measuring Tape: Mandatory for accuracy.
- Step Ladder: Don't reach; get level with the frame.
- Pencil & Paper: Write it down immediately. Don't rely on memory.
When ordering Inside Mount, give us the exact size of your window opening (to the nearest 1/8").
Do not make your own deductions. Our factory automatically deducts about 3/8" to 1/2" so the shade moves freely. If you deduct, and then we deduct, your shade will be too narrow.
3. Measuring for Inside Mount
Step A: Measure Width (The Crucial Step)
Measure the width inside the casing at three places: Top, Middle, and Bottom.
- Record the NARROWEST measurement.
- Round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.
- Why the narrowest? If you use the wider measurement, the headrail might get stuck in the narrowest part of the window frame.
Step B: Measure Height
Measure the height inside the casing at three places: Left, Middle, and Right.
- Record the LONGEST measurement.
- Note on Woven Woods: Natural materials may stretch slightly over time due to gravity. If your shade arrives slightly short, it often settles to the perfect length within a few weeks.
Step C: Check Your Depth
Measure the depth of your window casing. Compare this against the "Minimum Depth Requirement" listed on the product specifications. If you want the shade to be fully flush (not sticking out), check the "Flush Mount Depth" requirement.
4. Measuring for Outside Mount
There are no factory deductions for outside mounts. The shade will be made to the exact size you specify.
Step A: Measure Width
Measure the width of the area you want to cover.
- Recommendation: Add 2 to 4 inches to the total width (1-2 inches overlap per side). This ensures privacy and minimizes light leakage.
Step B: Measure Height
Determine where the headrail will go (usually 2-3 inches above the window frame) and measure down to where you want the shade to end (usually the sill or 2 inches below the sill).
- Recommendation: Mounting the shade higher (closer to the ceiling) makes the room feel taller.
- Requirement: Ensure you have at least 2 inches of flat surface above the window to drill the brackets into.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring Window Obstacles
Look for window cranks, alarm sensors, or handles. If they protrude, an Inside Mount might hit them. In this case, switch to an Outside Mount.
Rounding Up Instead of Down
For inside mounts, always round down to the nearest 1/8". If the window is 35 1/16", record it as 35". Never round up, or the blind will bind against the frame.
Swapping Width and Height
It sounds obvious, but it is the #1 reason for returns. Always double-check which number is Width (W) and which is Height (H). Standard format is always W x H.
Forgetting Privacy Liners
Woven woods are woven from natural reeds. Without a liner, they are not opaque—you can see silhouettes through them at night. If you need privacy (e.g., bedrooms), ensure you select a privacy or blackout liner option.
Conclusion
Measuring only takes a few minutes, but accuracy is everything. Remember: for Inside Mounts, give us the exact opening size and let us handle the fit. For Outside Mounts, tell us exactly how big you want the shade to be. Take your time, write down your numbers, and enjoy the custom look of your new woven wood shades.
