How to Cut Honeycomb Shades

Installing honeycomb shades, or cellular shades, in your windows offers several benefits. They are beautiful shades that offer excellent insulation for your windows, can make your windows more energy efficient, and are a beautiful option for window coverings.

Honeycomb shades come pre-sized or in custom sizing, and can be purchased in a variety of retail stores around the country. Custom-sized shades typically are far more expensive than the standard sized shades, but frequently it is difficult to find the right size for your windows. Many window covering stores will cut the shades for you, but the cutting does cost a good deal as well, and can quickly add up if you have many windows that need coverings.

You do not necessarily need a professional to cut the shades; with some careful measuring and the right tools, you can save both time and money and have your windows covered in the span of a weekend. Here you will find the information you need to get the job done.

Step 1 - Measure Windows

First, measure your windows on which you plan to install the shades. You will need to take a variety of measurements. but the most critical is the width of the window. Using the measuring tape, measure the width of the interior space of the window, and take measurements at the top, middle and bottom of the window. Write down your measurements. Also measure the height of the window, from top to bottom. Make sure you have purchased shades that are an appropriate width and length for your window.

Step 2 - Prepare the Shade

Compact the shade so that the top rail is tight with the bottom, and the fabric of the shade is tucked neatly and tightly between the two.

Wrap the ends, approximately where you will need to make your cuts, with the masking tape.

Measure your shades to the needed width (the width of the window minus one-half inch on each side) and mark where they will need to be cut. If the measurements from your window differ from top to bottom, mark the respective measurements. Using a straight edge, mark the masking tape with a pencil so you know where you need to make your cuts. Keep the shade tightly closed with the C clamps, putting some cardboard or wood between the clamp and the shade to protect the top and bottom rails.

Step 3 - Cut the Shades

Lay your shades on the miter saw, and without powering it, lower the saw to make sure the blade hits your marks. Keep the blade toward the outer edge of the shade, so that there isn't too much removed. You can always cut off more if needed. Once you are sure of the placement of the saw blade, quickly, with the saw blade at full speed, make your cuts. If needed, you can use a bit of sandpaper to smooth out any edges on the top or bottom rails.

Step 4 - Install Shades

Following the instructions that came with the shades, install your shades and enjoy!