On some single-string blinds, pulling the cord to the left unlocks the string while pulling to the right locks it. [2] X Research source Play around with your cord and see which direction does the trick. Venetian blinds, mini blinds, micro blinds, pleated shades, and cellular shades often use single-string systems. If you have especially big windows, your “single string” might actually be 4 strings tied together. [3] X Research source Treat these 4 strings like a unified cord, and make sure that you’re pulling them all at the same time—otherwise, your blinds will close unevenly. [4] X Research source
On some single-string blinds, you might have to tug the string to the right to lock them in place. [6] X Research source
Some blinds use 2 parallel strings to adjust the slats instead of a single wand. Just tug on 1 string to tilt the slats in one direction, and pull the other string to move the slats in the opposite. Alternate between strings until you’re content with the lighting. [8] X Research source
Top down-bottom up blinds don’t have adjustable slats—instead, you “adjust” the blinds by lowering and raising them along the top and bottom. Cellular, Roman, pleated, and woven wood shades are sometimes designed in this style. [10] X Research source
On some blinds, the left cord might control the bottom section of the blinds and the right cord might control the top. Tinker around a bit to see how your blinds function.
On some blinds, the locking mechanism might be reversed—on these, pulling to the left locks the cord while pulling to the right unlocks it.
Continuous-cord systems are common with bigger, bulkier blinds. [14] X Research source
Not all continuous-cord blinds come with adjustable slats.
Cordless blinds don’t have any strings or rods attached for adjustments. If your blinds are completely bare, there’s a good chance that they’re cordless.
The rod is parallel to the rest of the slats and is typically attached at the end. A rod system is most commonly used with vertical and panel blinds.
Double-check that the slats are completely open and separated before you slide them together with the rod.
