Roller Blind Fabric by the Metre: Can You Replace the Fabric on an Existing Blind?
If the fabric on your roller blind is worn, damaged, stained or simply no longer suits your room, you may not need to replace the complete blind.
In many cases, roller blind fabric can be replaced while keeping the existing roller tube, brackets and control mechanism.
Buying roller blind fabric only can therefore be a practical option for repairing an existing blind, changing its appearance or making your own roller blind using existing components.
Why replace the roller blind fabric instead of the complete blind?
A roller blind is actually a relatively simple system. The fabric is attached to a roller tube, which is supported by brackets and operated by either a chain mechanism, spring or motor.
If those components are still working correctly, replacing everything simply because the fabric needs changing may be unnecessary.
There are several reasons you might want replacement roller blind fabric:
The existing fabric has become marked, faded or damaged.
You are redecorating and want a different colour.
You want to change from standard fabric to blackout fabric.
The blind mechanism and brackets are still in good condition.
You want fabric for making or repairing your own roller blinds.
You need material for several blinds and would prefer to cut it to size yourself.
For these situations, buying roller blind fabric by the metre gives you considerably more flexibility than purchasing another complete made-to-measure blind.
Can you fit new fabric to an existing roller blind tube?
Usually, yes.
The old fabric can normally be removed from the roller tube and replacement fabric fitted in its place. Depending on the system, the fabric may be attached using adhesive tape or fitted into a slot in the roller tube.
Before ordering replacement fabric, it is worth checking that the existing tube is straight and that the mechanism, brackets and other components are operating correctly.
If the controls are worn as well, individual roller blind mechanisms, brackets, chains and other replacement parts can also be changed without necessarily replacing the complete blind.
How much roller blind fabric do I need?
Measure the finished fabric width, rather than simply measuring from one outside bracket to the other.
The fabric of a roller blind is normally narrower than the overall blind because space is required for the mechanism and end components.
For the drop, allow enough material for the required finished blind drop plus the fabric that remains wrapped around the roller tube when the blind is fully lowered.
It is generally better to allow a little extra material than to cut the replacement fabric too short.
What types of roller blind fabric can you buy?
Roller blind fabrics are available with very different properties, so replacing the fabric also gives you an opportunity to change how the blind performs.
Plain and light-filtering roller blind fabric
Plain fabrics are a versatile choice for general-purpose blinds. They provide privacy while allowing varying amounts of daylight into the room and are available in a wide range of colours.
Blackout roller blind fabric
Blackout fabrics are designed to prevent light passing through the material itself.
They are particularly popular for bedrooms, nurseries and rooms where greater control of incoming light is required.
It is worth remembering that blackout fabric does not automatically make the complete blind completely light-tight. Light can still enter around the sides, top and bottom of a conventional roller blind.
Translucent and daylight fabrics
Translucent fabrics are designed to make greater use of natural daylight while providing a degree of screening or privacy.
Different fabrics can produce considerably different results, so obtaining a fabric sample or swatch before ordering a larger quantity can be particularly useful.
[Roller Blind Fabric Samples / Swatches ]
Screen and solar-control fabrics
Screen fabrics are designed to reduce glare and solar gain while retaining varying degrees of outward visibility.
They are commonly specified by an openness factor, such as 1%, 3% or 5%. The construction and colour of the material also affect visibility, light transmission and solar performance.
These specialist fabrics can be useful in offices, conservatories and rooms with large areas of glazing.
Can roller blind fabric be cut to size?
Yes, but accurate cutting is important.
The sides of the fabric need to be straight, parallel and square to the roller tube. Poorly cut or incorrectly fitted fabric can cause a roller blind to track towards one side as it is raised.
For DIY replacement, measure carefully before cutting and make sure the fabric is fitted squarely to the tube.
For wider blinds in particular, working on a large clean, flat surface makes the job considerably easier.
Can I make my own roller blind?
Yes. Roller blinds can be assembled from individual components, making this an attractive project for people who are comfortable with DIY or already have experience making blinds.
Typical components include:
Roller blind fabric
Roller tube
Control mechanism and idle end
Mounting brackets
Operating chain where required
Bottom bar and end caps
Child-safety device where applicable
Blind Parts Hub supplies individual roller blind parts and components, allowing existing blinds to be repaired or new systems to be assembled without purchasing unnecessary components.
Don't forget roller blind child safety
Any blind operated by a looped chain or cord needs to be installed and used with appropriate consideration for child safety.
Replacement chains and controls should be installed in accordance with the relevant safety requirements, including the correct use and positioning of safety devices where required.
Buying roller blind fabric by the metre
Buying fabric separately can make sense whether you're repairing one existing blind, making a new blind or purchasing material for several blinds.
Blind Parts Hub is developing a range of roller blind fabric available separately from complete blinds, allowing you to order the material you need while retaining or purchasing the other components separately.
Our range will include different colours and fabric types, with samples available where appropriate to help you check colour, texture and light transmission before ordering.
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