Follow our step-by-step instructions and your beautiful new shades will soon be enhancing your home for many years to come.
8 min readUpdated April 2026
Before You Begin
Installing custom window treatments is a straightforward DIY project that most homeowners can complete in under 30 minutes per window. We've designed our mounting systems to be intuitive, and every order ships with all the hardware you need.
Before you start, read through the full instructions for your product type. We recommend having a helper for shades wider than 60 inches.
Carefully unbox and verify all parts against the packing list
Read through all instructions for your specific product before starting
Confirm your mount type: inside mount or outside mount
Clear the window area and have a step stool or ladder ready
Have a helper available for shades wider than 60 inches
Tools & Materials
Drill with 1/8" bit
Phillips Screwdriver
Metal Tape Measure
Level
Pencil
Step Stool
All necessary mounting hardware — screws, brackets, and tension devices — is included with your order. If your screws do not hit wood studs, use appropriate wall anchors from your local hardware store.
Step-by-Step Installation
Watch the short film for your product type, then follow the three key steps below it. Each window treatment has a unique bracket system and mounting method.
Roller & Solar Shades
Mount the Brackets
Mark the screw holes about 2 inches from each end of the frame, pre-drill pilot holes with a 1/8" bit, and drive the included screws. Run a level across both brackets before moving on.
Hang the Shade
Push the spring-loaded pin into the round hole on the left bracket, line up the clutch hooks with the slots on the right bracket, and gently pull down until you hear a click.
Secure the Chain Tensioner
Slide the tension device to the bottom of the chain loop, hold it flush against the wall or frame, then pre-drill and fasten it with the two included screws. The chain should be taut but not stretched.
Roman Shades
Install the Brackets
Confirm your frame is at least 3/4" deep for inside mount, then mark, pre-drill, and screw the brackets where the wider headrail can sit flush. For outside mount, place them at least 2" above the frame.
Snap In the Headrail
Rest the front lip of the headrail on the brackets, push the bottom edge back toward the window until it snaps, then tug gently to confirm it is locked.
Train the Folds
Check that the lift cords run straight through their guides, then raise and lower the shade five or six times so the fabric learns to stack in clean, even pleats.
Blinds
Level the Brackets
Position the brackets about 2" from each end of the frame, check them with a level, then pre-drill and drive the included screws. Uneven brackets make blinds hang crooked.
Click In the Headrail
Lift the headrail up and toward the window until it clicks into both brackets. If your model has locking tabs, flip them closed and tug gently to confirm.
Attach the Valance
Snap the valance clips onto the front of the headrail, then press the decorative valance into the clips once the blinds are fully hung and tested.
Inside vs. Outside Mount
Inside Mount
Brackets attach inside the window frame. This method gives a clean, built-in look and works best when your window frame is at least ¾" deep for a secure mount.
Position brackets at the top of the frame, ensuring equal distance from each side. Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent wood splitting. A 1/16" gap on each side is normal and allows smooth operation.
For roller and solar shades, brackets can be installed facing upward or straight on — choose whichever is best for your window depth.
Outside Mount
Brackets mount on the wall or trim above the window. This is the more forgiving option — it works with any window depth and creates the illusion of larger windows.
Position brackets at least 2" above the frame and extend 2–3" beyond each side for full light coverage. First mount one bracket, then hold the shade level to mark the second bracket position.
Use wall anchors if not drilling into studs. Outside mount is ideal for windows with shallow frames or when you want maximum coverage.
Care & Maintenance
Dusting: Use a soft, clean cloth or feather duster regularly to keep your shades looking fresh. For cellular and Roman shades, a quick pass once a week prevents dust buildup in folds and pleats.
Vacuuming: Use a handheld vacuum on the lowest suction setting with a brush attachment. Gently run it across the surface of the shade from top to bottom.
Spot cleaning: For small stains, use a damp cloth with mild soap. Blot — don't rub — and let the shade air dry fully before raising it. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Operation: Operate your shades gently and consistently. Avoid yanking cords or pulling shades down past their intended length. Smooth, steady movements extend the life of all mechanical components.
Pro Tips
Use the Mounting Template
Most window treatments include a paper template for bracket placement. Tape it to the wall or frame and drill right through the marked holes — it eliminates all guesswork and ensures perfect bracket spacing.
Check Level Twice
Verify your bracket marks are level before drilling and again after mounting the first bracket. It’s much easier to adjust pencil marks than to fill and re-drill holes.
Get a Helper for Wide Shades
Shades wider than 60 inches are significantly easier to install with two people — one to hold the headrail level while the other snaps it into the brackets.
Save Your Hardware
Keep extra screws, brackets, and the mounting template in a labeled bag. You’ll be grateful if you ever need to re-mount or move the shade to a different window.
Always Use Wall Anchors on Drywall
If your screws don’t hit a wood stud, never rely on drywall alone. Use toggle bolts or heavy-duty wall anchors — a falling shade can damage both the treatment and your window frame.
Troubleshooting
My shade won’t stay up or slowly drops down
Cordless shades: The internal spring needs more tension. Find the small adjustment screw on the top mounting bar (headrail) and turn it clockwise in small increments until the shade holds position.
Chain-operated shades: Make sure the chain is properly seated in the gear mechanism (clutch). Pull the chain to raise the shade a few inches and release. If it still slips, the clutch may need to be re-seated — remove the shade, push the clutch hooks firmly into the bracket slots, and pull down until they click.
The shade hangs crooked or is uneven
This almost always means the brackets are not level. Place a level across both brackets. If they are off, remove the lower bracket, fill the old holes with wood putty, let it dry, then re-drill at the correct height. Even a 1/16” difference can be visible on wide shades.
I hear clicking or grinding when I operate the shade
Check that the bead chain or lift cord is running cleanly through all guides and is not caught or twisted. For roller shades, verify that the gear mechanism (clutch) hooks are fully locked into the bracket slots — partial engagement causes grinding. Remove the shade, re-seat the hooks, and pull down firmly until you hear a click.
My brackets don’t reach a wall stud
Never rely on drywall screws alone — the shade will eventually pull free. Use toggle bolts (best for heavy shades) or heavy-duty wall anchors rated for at least 50 lbs. You can find both at any hardware store. Follow the anchor manufacturer’s instructions for hole size and installation.
The shade is too wide or too narrow for my window
Double-check your original measurement against the order confirmation. Custom shades are made to exact specifications, so a mismatch usually means the opening was measured differently than the order. If the shade truly does not match what you ordered, contact our customer service team — we will make it right.