Bamboo Blog Read the blog post below about bamboo or browse the archives for more bamboo blog posts. |
For many people bamboo blinds are the same as bamboo shades. The words seem interchangeable. Especially in current British English bamboo blinds and bamboo shades seem synonymous, with people generally preferring to use the term ‘blind’ to cover all window coverings. In American English there is a clear difference between the two phrases. Bamboo blinds refer to window coverings which have moveable slats. You can pull a cord on bamboo blinds to alter the amount of daylight they let through. As the bamboo slats move into a more vertical position the more sunlight they block out. Generally bamboo blinds have bigger slats which are slightly rounded. In contrast the slats on bamboo shades cannot be adjusted to let in or block out more sunlight. They can only be rolled up and down. Often bamboo shades are made from finer slats often not much thicker than matchsticks. Making bamboo shades is an ancient craft still practiced in Japan and China. In Japan many artisans still hand make bamboo shades using traditional methods. They strip the outer layer of the bamboo off the plant and then they whittle down the bamboo into thin strips which they then attach together with cords. Both bamboo shades and bamboo blinds are natural products made from a renewable resource. They are also both allergen free and antimicrobial; thus, ideal for people who suffer from allergies and asthma. They are also both easy to clean. You just need to wipe them with a damp cloth to remove dust. In terms of aesthetics, bamboo blinds have more an oriental feel. They add a touch of the exotic to a room. In contrast bamboo blinds are more practical and seem less exotic. On a practical level, although bamboo blinds are more functional I find that sometimes the opening and shutting the slats mechanism stops working all the time. I prefer simple roll up bamboo shades (or roll up bamboo blinds if you are British). Simplicity means less likelihood to go wrong. Finally Roman bamboo shades don’t roll up, but rather make folds at the top. They create a layered effect to window covering. Because of this Roman bamboo shades seem more ornate and perhaps suit a more formal style of décor. Please spend a moment to look at the bamboo shades and bamboo blinds on offer at our online bamboo shop powered by Amazon.com. Bamboo makes an original gift and adds something new to a room. |