Choosing blinds sounds simple until you actually start shopping for them. You measure your windows, look online, compare colours, check prices, then realise something. There are two completely different routes you can take. You can buy ready-made blinds straight from the shelf. Or you can go for made to measure blinds that are tailored to your exact window size.

Both options have their place. Both can look great. But they offer very different levels of fit, durability, and long-term value. And that is where most people get stuck. Are made to measure blinds really worth the extra money? Or are ready-made blinds perfectly fine for most homes?

What Is the Real Difference Between Ready-Made and Made to Measure?

The clue is in the name. Ready-made blinds come in standard sizes. You pick the size that is closest to your window. Sometimes it fits perfectly. Most of the time, you need to trim it, adjust it or just accept a bit of light leakage at the sides.

Made to measure blinds, on the other hand, are built to your measurements. You choose the exact size, the exact fabric, the exact finish, and the exact controls. The result is a blind that fits your window frame like it was always meant to be there.

You may also be interested in: What Type of Blinds Lasts the Longest?

Fit and Light Control. Does It Really Matter?

Yes. Sometimes more than people expect.

The biggest complaint with ready-made blinds is this. They rarely fit perfectly. Even if you buy the closest size, there is usually a small gap on one side. For a bedroom, that means unwanted light early in the morning. For a home office, it might mean screen glare at the worst possible angle.

Made to measure blinds sit neatly within the window recess. They reduce gaps and give you much more control over brightness. If you are sensitive to light or you want the room to feel clean and streamlined, the fit alone can justify the upgrade.

One common question is “Do made to measure blinds block more light?” The short answer is yes. Because they fit properly. Blackout fabrics help even more, but the precision fit makes the biggest difference.

Durability and Build Quality

People often assume made to measure blinds last longer because they cost more. But the price isn’t the reason they last. It is the way they are built.

Most made to measure blinds use stronger mechanisms, better stitching, and higher grade fabrics. They are designed for daily use over many years. Many ready-made blinds are designed to be affordable first, long-lasting second.

A good example is the chain mechanism. On a ready-made roller blind, the chain is often plastic and lightweight. On a made to measure roller blind, it is usually metal, tightly fitted, and smoother to operate. You feel the difference every time you open or close it.

If you are planning to keep the blinds for more than two or three years, durability becomes a serious part of the value equation.

Design Flexibility and Style Choices

Ready-made blinds have improved a lot in recent years. You can find plenty of great colours and patterns. But you are still choosing from whatever the retailer has in stock.

Made to measure blinds give you a much wider palette. You can match fabrics to your décor, choose specific levels of light control, or even pair blinds with curtains for a layered look. If you want something subtle like a warm grey to match the sofa, you will almost always find it in a made to measure range.

Are made to measure blinds worth it for odd-shaped windows?

This is one of the main reasons people choose them. Bay windows, extra-wide windows, skylights, small cottage windows. Ready-made blinds often cannot handle these sizes well. Made to measure blinds can be created to suit nearly any shape or dimension.

Price Comparison. Are Made to Measure Blinds Overpriced?

It is tempting to compare the two options based on the price tag alone. Ready-made blinds are obviously cheaper upfront. Sometimes dramatically cheaper. You can walk into a shop and get a blind for £20 to £40.

Made to measure blinds usually start higher. But the value equation is not only about the initial cost. Here are the main things that influence real value.

Lifespan

A blind that lasts ten years is better value than a blind that needs replacing every two. If you plan to stay in the same home for a long time, made to measure blinds can be the more cost-effective choice.

Energy efficiency

Well-fitted blinds reduce heat loss in winter and help with insulation. This can slightly reduce your heating bill. Ready-made blinds do help but not as effectively due to the gaps.

Customisation

If you have an unusual space or specific design vision, made to measure blinds save you time and frustration.

So are made to measure blinds overpriced? No. They simply offer a different level of quality. Whether that level is worth it depends on your priorities.

Installation Ease. Which Is Easier?

Ready-made blinds are made for DIY installation. Most people can put them up in under an hour. If you are confident with a drill and a tape measure, you will be fine.

Made to measure blinds can also be installed by the homeowner. The difference is in the measuring. You need accurate numbers. If you measure incorrectly, the blind may not fit.

At Best Blinds, we offer professional measuring and installation. This removes the risk and is ideal if you have multiple windows or a complex layout.

If you’re planning to install your blinds on your own and want to avoid the usual mistakes, take a look at our guide “How to Install Window Blinds: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide.”

So Which One Offers Better Value?

If value means lowest immediate cost, ready-made blinds win. No question. They are quick, convenient, and perfect for rentals, spare rooms, or tight budgets.

If value means long-term performance, perfect fit, better insulation, improved light control and a more polished finish, made to measure blinds are the stronger choice.

For most homes, the best approach is a mix. Choose ready-made blinds where perfection is not essential. Choose made to measure blinds for the rooms you use every day, where the look and comfort matter most.

Thinking About New Blinds? Get a Free Quote from Best Blinds

If you are leaning towards made to measure blinds but want to be sure they are right for your home, it helps to speak to someone who knows the products inside out. We offer free quotes and a no-pressure consultation so you can see your options, check fabric samples, and get accurate measurements before you commit to anything.

Get in touch with us today at 01623 552797(Mansfield) or 0115 8221403 (Nottingham).

Quick Answers

Are made to measure blinds better quality?
Generally yes. They use stronger mechanisms and better fabrics.

Do made to measure blinds last longer?
Often they do. With proper care they can last five to ten years or more.

Are ready-made blinds ok for renters?
Absolutely. They are affordable, quick to install, and easy to replace when you move.

Can I install made to measure blinds myself?
Yes, as long as you measure carefully. Many people do it without any issues.

Are made to measure blinds more expensive?
Upfront yes. Long term they can be better value because you replace them less often.

Do made to measure blinds increase home value?
They don’t directly increase property value, but they can improve the look and feel of the rooms which helps when selling.