How Vertical Blinds Are Made and Used

How Vertical Blinds Are Made and Used

Ever wondered how vertical window blinds are made? We’ll tell you in this blog! We’ll also tell you what they are, the styles available and how to use them…

At A1 Blinds we’ve been manufacturing blinds for over 30 years. So, there’s no one better suited to give advice or information about blinds!

What are vertical window blinds?

Vertical window blinds are consistently popular with our customers, and for good reason.

Vertical blinds are vertical fabric slats (louvres) that are attached to a sliding track in the headrail and adjusted via a chain, cord or wand.

The verticals can be produced in a wide range of fabrics depending on your taste. They are weighted at the bottom of each slat and linked to ensure an evenly spaced drop.

Depending on how much light you want in your room, vertical window blinds tilt and turn, or drawback completely. They are different to most other blind styles as they open from side to side rather than top to bottom.

Whether you’re reducing glare or enjoying the sunrays, vertical window blinds enable full light and privacy control.

Green vertical window blinds

How to make vertical window blinds

Our craftsmen have years of experience in manufacturing beautiful blinds for our customers.

Lots of time, skill and attention to detail goes into each and every vertical window blind. We’re very proud of the quality blinds we produce, so let us talk you through the process…

  1. Firstly, our fitters come to your home for your free consultation appointment. During this consultation the fitters measure your windows and bring samples for you to browse.
  2. Once we have your measurements and chosen fabric, we’ll begin to make your blinds!
  3. The first step is to cut the headrails to the specified window width. We do this using a machine to ensure high-precision, neat edges. The headrail is where the fabric slats will hang from.
  4. Next, for bay or curved windows, we use an industrial bending machine to achieve the desired curve, bespoke to every window.
  5. Then the carrier trucks (the fabric slat attachment clips) are fitted into the headrails and the adjustment string is fitted.
  6. Next, the chosen slat fabric is cut to length from the roll. Again, this cut is done by a manned machine to ensure perfect cuts and identical slats.
  7. The bottoms of the fabric slats are then folded and sewn, leaving a horizontal gap at the foot of each. This gap is for the weights to be slotted into, which help to maintain a consistent look across the window.
  8. Once the weights have been stitched in, chains are added to link each of them together. The chains help to keep the blinds in line; however, they are optional as verticals do work without them!
  9. The final stage is to package up the headrails and the fabric slats. They are then collected by the fitter on the morning of your appointment and fit into your window in due course.
  10. Finally, you can enjoy your beautiful vertical window blinds for years to come! Take a look at our cleaning guide to keep them looking brand new.

Vertical blinds production

Vertical window blind styles

Being one of our most popular styles, we stock a huge range of vertical window blinds to suit every room.

Choose from a variety of coloured and patterned vertical blinds. From subtle neutrals through to statement bolds – we’re sure you’ll find something you love.

Our vertical window blinds are also available in blackout fabrics and chainless slats, depending on your personal needs.

You can speak to the team at any time if you require any styling or safety advice.

Patterned vertical blinds

The benefits of vertical window blinds

Vertical window blinds come with a host of benefits for the home and commercial settings.

Thanks to their two control options, these blinds excel when it comes to light and privacy management. You can tilt, open, or fully close your blinds – making them a good option across many rooms.

Controlling the sunrays in your home also enables energy-saving. Vertical window blinds are able to block out the hot sun rays in summer and trap the heat during winter. Therefore, less energy usage and less cost for you!

Vertical blinds are extremely easy to clean and collect much less dust than horizontal blinds. The fabric slats can be wiped down with a cloth or machine washed to remove stains. Between deep cleans, a quick dusting is all they require to keep them looking pristine!

Vertical window blinds are also available with child and pet safety functions. These include P-clips, cleats, and chain-free options.

As you can tell, a lot of work goes into making our quality vertical window blinds. Have we inspired you?

We’re constantly on the lookout for new fabrics and styles to keep you on-trend, so be sure to keep an eye on our collection! You can browse our collection of vertical window blinds here or book your FREE home or virtual consultation today via the website.

Case Study: Bradley Hall Head Office

Case Study: Bradley Hall Head Office

Custom Branded Roller Blinds for Bradley Hall’s Grey Street HQ

Client: Bradley Hall
Location: Grey Street, Newcastle upon Tyne
Sector: Commercial Property
Scope: Custom Branded and Non-Branded Roller Blinds Across Two Floors
Project Status: Delivered to Spec, On Time, Within 2 Weeks

The Project

We were commissioned to design and install a combination of branded and non-branded roller blinds for Bradley Hall’s stunning new head office on Newcastle’s iconic Grey Street. The blinds not only enhance the aesthetic of the new space, but also provide practical year-round comfort.


What the Client Needed

As the building is listed, Bradley Hall were unable to use external signage to display their brand identity. They needed an interior solution that would subtly represent their brand in a stylish, professional way, while still providing effective solar shading and heat retention.


The Challenge

  • No external signage permitted due to the heritage status of the building.
  • No parking for unloading equipment.
  • 4-metre-high windows requiring specialist ladder access.
  • Narrow spiral staircases, making it difficult to manoeuvre materials without damaging freshly decorated walls and doors.

The client also required a rapid turnaround ahead of moving into their new space.


How We Overcame It

Our team designed and manufactured a blend of branded and non-branded roller blinds, ensuring a cohesive look across two floors. The installation required exceptional care and expertise to work safely within the constraints of a heritage building.

Despite the logistical hurdles, we delivered the entire project from initial enquiry to completion in under 2 weeks, meeting Bradley Hall’s deadlines without compromising on quality.


The Result

The finished installation delivered:

  • Stylish integration of Bradley Hall’s branding into the new office.
  • Effective shading and thermal control for year-round comfort.
  • Seamless delivery within a limited timeframe.
  • A high-quality installation, despite the challenges of restricted access and building constraints.

Client Feedback

“Huge thanks to you and the team Kevin! Fantastic service from start to finish, quick turnaround and quality product and installation. They look great!”

– Sharon Boyd, Chief Operating Officer, Bradley Hall North East / Yorkshire


The Bigger Picture

This project demonstrates our ability to combine branding, design, and practicality, even in heritage or conservation-area buildings where signage is restricted. It also underlines our expertise in overcoming complex site challenges and delivering under tight time pressures.

Perfect Fit® Shutter Lite – The Smarter Way to Add Style to Your Windows

Perfect Fit® Shutter Lite – The Smarter Way to Add Style to Your Windows

When it comes to window style, shutters are always a favourite – but traditional plantation shutters can be pricey, time-consuming, and invasive to install. That’s where our new Perfect Fit® Shutter Lite comes in.

Exclusively from A1 Blinds, this innovative system gives you the clean lines and light control of classic shutters – without the complications.


Why Customers Are Choosing Shutter Lite

  • Great Style, Great Value
    Perfect Fit® Shutter Lite offers an accessible alternative to traditional shutters – ideal for modern homes looking for elegant simplicity.
  • Quick & Simple Fitting
    No drilling. No mess. These shutters click neatly into place using a Perfect Fit® frame – meaning less disruption and more convenience.
  • Works With Doors and Tilt & Turn Windows
    The shutter moves with your window or door – making it perfect for inward-opening frames, patio doors, and even French doors.

🌞 Let the Light In – and Keep the View

Thanks to its minimal framework and slim louvres, Perfect Fit® Shutter Lite lets in plenty of natural light while maintaining excellent privacy. The clever design also gives you a clearer view to the outside than bulkier shutter systems.


❄️🔥 Comfort All Year Round

Perfect Fit® Shutter Lite does more than just look good. These shutters help create a more comfortable indoor environment by:

  • Reducing heat loss in winter
  • Blocking direct sunlight in summer
  • Helping improve energy efficiency throughout the home

By regulating room temperature, they can even contribute to more consistent energy use over time.


💷 Style That Elevates Your Home

Shutters are known to enhance both kerb appeal and interior finish. Shutter Lite can:

  • Add a high-end look to any room
  • Signal quality and practicality to potential buyers
  • Enhance the overall presentation of your property

A stylish upgrade that makes a lasting impression – especially when fitted professionally by A1 Blinds.


🧼 Practical, Waterproof & Wipe-Clean

Built for everyday living, these shutters are:

  • Easy to remove for cleaning or decorating
  • Wipe-clean and waterproof
  • Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and busy family homes

No caulking. No damage. Just a smart, practical solution that fits effortlessly into your lifestyle.


Made in the UK

We’re proud to offer a product that’s:

  • Made in the UK
  • Fitted by our trusted A1 Blinds installation team

📞 Upgrade Your Windows Today

Stylish. Practical. Versatile.

Perfect Fit® Shutter Lite proves you don’t need to compromise on looks, light, or lifestyle.

Contact A1 Blinds today to find out more and book your free home consultation.

Case Study: Newcastle Airport Control Tower

Case Study: Newcastle Airport Control Tower

40 Custom Tension Pleated Blinds for Newcastle Airport Control Tower

Client: Newcastle International Airport
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne
Sector: Aviation – Air Traffic Control
Scope: 40 Bespoke Tension Pleated Blinds
Project Status: Delivered to Spec, On Time

The Project

We were commissioned to design and install 40 custom tension pleated blinds for Newcastle International Airport’s Air Traffic Control Tower. This wasn’t a straightforward job – the tower’s unique architecture and operational restrictions made it one of the most complex installations we’ve ever delivered.


What the Client Needed

The brief was simple but critical: shading and light control in an environment where visibility is paramount. The blinds needed to perform flawlessly to reduce glare, enhance comfort, and maintain clear sightlines for air traffic controllers at all times.


The Challenge

The tower’s design created a unique technical challenge: the windows are narrower at the top than the bottom. This meant the blinds had to operate in reverse, raising issues with tension and stability. Getting them to stay in place was no small feat.


How We Overcame It

Our team engineered a bespoke solution using:

  • Maximum tension throughout each blind system
  • Reinforced top bars for durability
  • Discreet magnetic strips to keep blinds secure

We worked closely with the client throughout, being completely transparent about the technical hurdles. To build confidence, we produced working samples that were tested and signed off before full manufacture began.


Working in a Live Air Traffic Control Tower

This wasn’t just a technical project – it was also about precision planning. Working in one of the UK’s busiest control towers meant strict security measures:

  • All staff were vetted and security checked
  • Passports had to be presented at each entry
  • Access was tightly restricted and visits limited

To meet these requirements, we planned every step of the installation around an agreed programme of works, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and minimal disruption to airport operations.


The Result

The new blinds have transformed the tower environment, delivering:

✅ Glare reduction
✅ Improved visibility for controllers
✅ Greater comfort in a high-pressure workplace

The client praised not only the quality of the finished product but also our communication, professionalism, and how smoothly the installation was managed.


The Bigger Picture

This project highlights our ability to deliver bespoke blind solutions for even the most complex environments. From innovative design to meticulous project management, we can adapt to buildings where standard systems simply won’t work.


Ready for the Next One

If you’ve got a project that demands a tailored shading solution – whether it’s an airport, a commercial office, or a uniquely shaped building – we’ve got the expertise to deliver.

Get in touch with our team today to discuss how we can design, manufacture, and install blinds that meet your exact requirements.

© 2025 A1 Blinds