Project Source Mini Blinds

Finding the Perfect Mini Blinds for Your Home

Mini blinds are one of the most popular types of window coverings. They are affordable, easy to install, and provide light control and privacy. As a homeowner, you want to find quality mini blinds that will look great and last for years to come. That’s where Project Source mini blinds come in.

Project Source is an exclusive brand of mini blinds sold at Lowe’s home improvement stores. With a huge selection of sizes, colors, and features, Project Source mini blinds have something for every room in your home. But how do you know which ones are right for you? This detailed buying guide has all the information you need to choose the perfect Project Source mini blinds.

What are Project Source Mini Blinds?

Project Source mini blinds are aluminum blinds with slim, horizontal slats. They are available in various slat sizes from 1/2 inch all the way up to 2 inches. The most popular slat sizes are 1 inch and 1 1/2 inches. Project Source mini blinds feature durable baked enamel or vinyl coatings to prevent chipping, cracking, and fading.

Compared to vinyl or plastic economy blinds, Project Source mini blinds have a more stylish, upscale look. Their quality materials and construction allow them to last for years under normal use. While still very affordable, they provide a noticeable step up from the cheapest discount store blinds.

Benefits of Choosing Project Source Mini Blinds

There are many good reasons to choose Project Source mini blinds for your home:

• Affordable pricing – Project Source blinds are very competitively priced, starting under $10 for basic vinyl 1-inch blinds. Even the nicer baked enamel blinds cost significantly less than comparable blinds from other brands.
• Good quality – The baked enamel slats have a smooth, durable finish that resists warping. The blind mechanisms are made to last through years of regular use.
• Wide range of choices – With varied slat sizes, colors, and options, you can easily find the perfect blinds to coordinate with your room décor.
• Easy installation – Project Source blinds use a simple mounting bracket system for quick DIY installation inside or outside the window frame. No complicated brackets or screws needed.
• Light filtering or blackout – Choose sheer vinyl or opaque baked enamel slats depending on how much light control you need. Add blackout cellular shades behind your blinds for maximum light blocking.
• Energy efficiency – Close the blinds to help insulate your windows and reduce energy costs for heating and cooling.

Where to Buy Project Source Mini Blinds

Project Source mini blinds are sold exclusively at Lowe’s stores across the United States and online at www.lowes.com. Lowe’s has one of the largest selections of mini blind sizes, making it easy to find blinds to fit your windows.

You can shop for Project Source blinds either in your local Lowe’s store or on the website. The selection is the same, so you can conveniently order online and pick up at your nearest location. Lowe’s often runs sales and promotions both online and in store. Sign up for the MyLowe’s loyalty program to receive special offers and discounted pricing.

How Much Do Project Source Mini Blinds Cost?

Project Source mini blind prices typically range from about $5 to $25 per blind, depending on size and options. The most affordable options are basic 1-inch vinyl blinds which cost $6 to $12. Upgrading to wider slats, baked enamel, cordless, or blackout blinds adds $5 to $10 per blind.

Some of the most popular and reasonably priced models include:

• 1-Inch Vinyl Blinds – $5 to $12
• 1-Inch Baked Enamel Blinds – $9 to $18
• 1 1/2-inch Baked Enamel Blinds – $11 to $22
• 2-inch Baked Enamel Blinds – $17 to $25
• Cordless Blinds – $15 to $30
• Blackout Blinds – $10 to $20

For standard blinds without added features, prices depend mainly on the slat size and width of the blinds:

• Narrower blinds (18 to 36 inches wide) cost $5 to $15
• Medium blinds (37 to 72 inches wide) range from $10 to $20
• Wider blinds (72+ inches) cost $15 to $30

To save money, watch for Lowe’s coupons and special buys on their website. Mini blinds often go on sale for 20% to 40% off regular prices.

How to Measure for Project Source Mini Blinds

Measuring the windows correctly is crucial for ordering blinds that will fit properly. Here are some tips for measuring mini blinds:

• Use a steel tape measure for accuracy. Measure to the nearest 1/8 inch.
• For inside mounts, measure the exact window opening width and height.
• For outside mounts, measure the overall area you want the blinds to cover. Add at least 2 inches to the width for proper side clearance.
• Measure in 3 places – left, center and right – and use the largest width. Write down each measurement.
• Order the exact size of your window opening for inside mounts. Project Source blinds can only be cut down in width, not extended.
• For outside mounts, order blinds at least 2 inches wider than the window frame on each side. Add more to overlap siding or trim.
• Include the measurement method (inside mount or outside mount) and the exact measurements when ordering online or in store.

Accurate measurements ensure a perfect custom fit and avoid needing to return blinds that are the wrong size. Take your time measuring, and double check all the window measurements before ordering.

How to Install Project Source Mini Blinds

Installing Project Source mini blinds is a straightforward process that most homeowners can tackle themselves:

Step 1) Fit the right and left mounting brackets over the top of the blind. Space them equal distance from the ends.

Step 2) Hold the blind up to the window frame and mark where to place the brackets. Make sure the blind is centered and level.

Step 3) Screw the brackets firmly into place. For inside mounts, attach to the window frame. For outside mounts, attach to the wall or molding.

Step 4) Fit the blind into the brackets until it snaps into place. Make sure the brackets align with the back of the headrail.

Step 5) For wider blinds, insert center support brackets as needed to prevent sagging. Position the supports equally spaced apart.

Step 6) Attach the tilt wand and draw cords on the right side. Slide the wand into the hook, and tie the cords through the cord lock cleats.

Step 7) Test operating the blind, raising/lowering and tilting the slats open and closed. Your new blinds are ready to enjoy!

Check the included instructions for detailed steps. Have a helper when mounting large blinds. The whole installation process usually takes less than 30 minutes for standard size blinds.

Available Sizes for Project Source Mini Blinds

A major advantage of Project Source blinds is the wide range of sizes to fit any window. Here are the most common sizes:

Widths: from 12 inches to 192 inches (4 feet to 16 feet)

Lengths: from 16 inches to 96 inches (1 foot to 8 feet)

You can choose any specific width and length combination to custom fit your window size. Size increments vary by width:

• Narrow blinds under 40 inches wide adjust by 1/8-inch increments
• Medium blinds 40 to 64 inches adjust in 1/4-inch increments
• Large blinds over 64 inches adjust in 1/2-inch increments

This extensive size selection ensures you can get Project Source blinds made to your exact measurements. Just input the specific inches when ordering.

For very large windows, you can join two blinds together with a connector. This allows for extra wide blinds up to 288 inches (24 feet)!

Adjustability of Project Source Mini Blinds

One great perk of mini blinds is how adjustable they are to control light and privacy. Here are the ways Project Source mini blinds can be adjusted:

• Raise/lower the blinds using the draw cord to any height along the window.
• Open/close slats from fully open to fully closed using the tilt wand.
• Lock the slats at your desired openness angle by twisting the wand to secure in place.
• Shift slat angles from fully open to fully closed to adjust outdoor visibility and indoor daylight.
• Add a blind stopper to limit how high the blind raises for safety and privacy.
• Rotate the slats up to 180 degrees to direct light where needed in a room.
• Layer with blackout shades to block all light when needed for naps or sleeping.

The flexibility to manipulate the blinds for light control and visibility makes them ideal window treatments for every room. Kids’ rooms, home offices, kitchens, and bedrooms can all benefit from the adjustability of Project Source mini blinds.

Materials Used for Project Source Mini Blinds

Project Source mini blinds come in two main slat materials: vinyl and aluminum.

Vinyl blinds feature slats made from extruded PVC in a flat plastic strip. Vinyl is affordable but prone to cracking and warping over time.

Aluminum blinds have slats of baked enamel or coated aluminum. This provides a sturdier, more durable blind.

Here are some details on each material:

• Vinyl – Budget-friendly option, lightweight, easy to wipe clean, available in sheer or opaque, prone to damage
• Baked enamel – Slats are coated in a smooth, baked-on enamel finish for durability and easy cleaning; upgraded look from vinyl
• Coated aluminum – Very durable aluminum slats with a protective coating; provides crisp, clean lines and high-end appearance

Vinyl works well for inexpensive blinds in kids’ rooms, bathrooms and other casual areas of the home. For living spaces, bedrooms and kitchens, spring for the stronger aluminum blinds. They will maintain their beauty for many years.

Can Project Source Blinds Be Cut to Size?

One limitation of Project Source blinds is that they cannot easily be made wider than the stock sizes. However, the blinds can be cut shorter in length if needed.

To cut the blinds narrower:

• Mark the desired cutting line with a pencil. Include the slats, ladder cords, and bottom rail.
• Place the blind on a flat surface, lined up on the cut line.
• Use a hacksaw to cut slowly and carefully along the cut line.
• File any rough edges smooth with an emery board.
• Remove the bottom rail end caps and shorten to match the new blind length.
• Reattach the end caps over the ends of the bottom rail.

With some simple DIY modifications, the ability to cut Project Source blinds down to size comes in handy for getting a perfect custom fit.

Cordless or Corded Project Source Mini Blinds?

Project Source mini blinds come in both cordless and corded versions:

• Corded blinds have a draw cord on one side to raise and lower the blind. Plastic cord cleats hold the cord taut.
• Cordless blinds operate with a lift cord on the back that raises or lowers the blinds in one direction only.

Cordless blinds are safer for homes with young children and pets. Without dangling cords, there is no risk of strangulation or entanglement. However, cordless blinds cannot be stopped at mid-height like corded blinds can.

If cord safety is not an issue, corded blinds provide better convenience and adjustability. Corded Project Source blinds only cost a couple dollars more than the cordless style.

For optimal safety and use, choose corded blinds mounted up high out of reach combined with cordless blinds on lower windows.

How Project Source Mini Blinds Compare to Other Brands

Project Source mini blinds offer an excellent balance of quality and value. Here is how they stack up against other popular brands:

• Less expensive than Bali, Levolor and Hunter Douglas – Great if you want attractive blinds on a budget
• Similar quality as Allen + Roth and Sun Zero – Good mid-range options with comparable construction
• Better quality than cheapest discount brands – More stylish and durable than super cheap vinyl blinds
• Not as high-end as custom brands – Won’t have all the luxury features and lifetime warranties of pricier blinds

Overall, Project Source blinds provide a nice upgraded look from economy vinyl mini blinds but at a more affordable price point than most name brands. The good news is you don’t have to sacrifice quality to save money.

Easy Cleaning of Project Source Mini Blinds

To keep your Project Source mini blinds looking like new, periodic cleaning is a must. Here are some tips for cleaning:

• Use a soft brush or vacuum crevice tool to remove dust from the slats.
• Spot clean vinyl blinds as needed with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh cleaners.
• Clean aluminum blinds with water and gentle cleanser. Use cotton swabs for slat edges.
• Spray blind cleaner onto soft cloth and wipe slats. Do not soak headrail or cords.
• Mix a solution of vinegar and water to remove stubborn dirt or mineral deposits.
• Take blinds down once a year for a deep cleaning bath. Lay flat to dry.
• Replace damaged slats by sliding new slats into the string ladder.

By regularly dusting and wiping down the blinds, you can keep them fresh and clean for maximum visibility and light control. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or cleaners on vinyl slats which can scratch easily. With a little routine care, Project Source blinds will maintain their good looks.

Available Colors for Project Source Mini Blinds

With well over 50 color and finish options, Project Source mini blinds can blend seamlessly with any room décor. Here are some of the most popular colors:

Whites/Creams – Classic linen white, antique white, eggshell

Grays – Light silver, charcoal, slate gray, pewter

Tans/Browns – Golden oak, chestnut brown, café, sandstone

Yellows – Lemon, sunflower, golden glow

Blues – Sea blue, sky blue, navy, denim

Greens – Olive, sage, forest green, seafoam

Others – Black, chocolate, terracotta, plum, burgundy

Both cool and warm neutrals are available to coordinate with any paint colors and furnishings. Bold hues like cherry red, coral, and bright turquoise allow making a vibrant statement.

With standard vinyls costing the same regardless of color, you can easily switch the look from room to room for no added expense. Upgrade to baked enamel for stunning, rich, fade-resistant hues.

Light Blocking Ability of Project Source Blinds

For rooms where darkness is a priority, pay attention to the opacity of the slats. Project Source offers these light-blocking options:

• Sheer/translucent vinyl – Provides minimal privacy and light filtering
• Opaque vinyl – More effective at blocking light while still allowing some to filter through
• Baked enamel colors – Appear opaque but some light comes through edges when open
• Blackout cellular shades – Layer these behind blinds for total darkness
• Room darkening metal blinds – Special dark gray baked enamel blocks almost all light

The wider and more opaque the slats are, the more effectively the blinds will block outside light. But even opaque blinds won’t black out a room completely. For maximum light blocking, add separate blackout shades in heavier fabrics.

Suitability of Project Source Blinds for Kitchens and Bathrooms

Project Source mini blinds work well in kitchens, bathrooms, and other humid areas of the home. Here’s how to choose appropriate blinds:

• Avoid vinyl blinds which can warp or discolor from moisture over time
• Pick washable baked enamel or coated aluminum slats
• Use wider slats for more coverage and light blocking
• Make sure blinds are moisture-resistant and ventilated to prevent mold
• Look for blinds with a wipeable, durable finish for easy cleaning
• Consider moisture-proof polyester blinds for very damp kitchens and bathrooms
• Install blinds at least 6 inches above tubs or sinks to prevent water splashes
• Raise blinds when not in use to allow air circulation and drying

With the right slat material and proper precautions, Project Source mini blinds will stand up well to high humidity and condensation. Focus on blinds with durable, cleanable finishes.

Durability of Project Source Mini Blinds

Project Source mini blinds are designed to be durable for years of regular use:

• Aluminum slats resist bending, warping, and scratches
• Hardware is made from galvanized steel for corrosion resistance
• Baked enamel coatings cure at high heat for extra toughness
• Cordless lift systems are tested to 10,000 cycles without breaking
• Reinforced ladder cords support the weight of larger blinds
• Valances, corners, and edges are tightly seamed and less prone to tearing
• Bobbin winders keep cords neatly contained and prevent fraying
• Louver supports and bracing prevent slats from shifting and sagging

Under normal living conditions, properly installed Project Source blinds should maintain their smooth operation and appearance for 5 years or longer. Rotate slats and clean periodically to maximize the lifespan.

Replacing Broken Components on Project Source Blinds

Over years of use, some blind parts may break or malfunction. Thankfully, many components on Project Source blinds can be replaced:

• Cords – Unthread and tie on new lift or draw cords
• Wand – Pop out old tilt wand and insert replacement into the gearbox
• Slats – Slide new slats into the string ladder as needed
• Bottom rail – Detach end caps to slide on a new matching bottom rail
• Brackets – Substitute stronger metal brackets if plastic breaks
• Headrail – Replace entire headrail if severely damaged

You can find replacement parts and repair kits online or call customer support. With a little handy work, fixing most issues is straightforward. This saves the cost of buying whole new blinds.

Reviews of Project Source Mini Blinds

Project Source mini blinds earn overwhelmingly positive homeowner reviews:

• Hundreds of 4-5 star ratings praise their good quality and easy installation
• Many note that the baked enamel aluminum blinds look much richer than cheap vinyl blinds
• Reviewers comment that the blinds filter light nicely while maintaining privacy
• Owners say the cordless blinds operate smoothly and are safer for kids and pets
• Customers find sizing versatile with a wide range of widths and lengths
• Negative reviews focus on rare issues like warped slats or tangled cords
• Most reviewers agree Project Source blinds are an excellent value for the affordable prices

Based on countless happy customer reviews, Project Source mini blinds deliver pleasing style, easy operation, and lasting quality. For basic blinds that get the job done right, Project Source is a winning choice.

Troubleshooting Problems with Project Source Blinds

Project Source mini blinds are generally reliable, but occasional issues can arise:

• Blinds won’t raise or lower – Check for tangled cords or obstructions in the headrail. Disconnect and straighten cords if twisted.
• Slats won’t open or close – Make sure tilt wand is fully inserted in gearbox. Replace broken wand if stripped at gearbox.
• Slats shift out of alignment – Check for bent middle support brackets allowing slats to sag. Broken ladder cords can also cause slat shifting.
• Noisy operation – Apply silicone spray lubricant to cords and ladder joints. Check for obstructions interfering with slat movement.
• Cord fraying or breaking – Frayed areas may be retied. Replace broken cords with new draw cords or cordless lift tape.

Follow troubleshooting steps to identify the problem. Most issues can be fixed with basic blind repairs and replacements. Contact Lowe’s customer service for help with defective blinds under warranty.

Project Source Mini Blind Warranty Information

Project Source mini blinds from Lowe’s come with a limited lifetime warranty. This warrants the blinds to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for as long as you own the product.

The warranty covers:

• Peeling, flaking, or cracking finish
• Faulty operation of lift cords, ladder cords, and tilt mechanisms
• Defective parts such as headrail, bottom rail, slats

Normal wear and tear, accidents, and acts of nature are not covered. Homeowner installation and improper cleaning void the warranty.

Keep the original receipt to prove date of purchase. Contact Lowe’s for full warranty details or to start a warranty claim.

Child and Pet Safety with Project Source Mini Blinds

Any blinds with cords can pose a strangulation hazard to small children and pets. To maximize safety with Project Source mini blinds:

• Choose cordless blinds where possible, especially on lower floors
• Position cribs, beds, and play areas far from corded blinds
• Cut excess cord length and secure with safety tassels
• Install cord cleats to wrap up cords tightly when not in use
• Always keep cords secured and out of reach of children and pets
• Supervise children around any window coverings with cords
• Frequently check that safety devices are working properly

Regularly inspect blinds and fix any issues with cords loosening or releasing. Proper use and positioning of corded blinds greatly reduce the risks of accidents. But cordless blinds are the safest choice for homes with young kids.

Shopping for Project Source Mini Blinds

With so many sizes, features, and options to consider, here is a checklist to guide your Project Source mini blind shopping:

• Measure windows carefully to order accurate sizes
• Pick durable aluminum slats for high use areas
• Determine how much light control and privacy you need
• Select colors and finishes to coordinate with existing decor
• Compare cordless and corded blind pros and cons
• Include any needed mounting hardware and accessories
• Look for special coupon savings and sales
• Order sample swatches if unsure about color

Take your time, browse all the choices, and think about where the blinds will be installed. A thoughtful purchasing decision will ensure you get beautiful, long-lasting Project Source mini blinds that enhance your home for years to come.

Conclusion

With their wide selection, quality craftsmanship, and affordable prices, Project Source mini blinds are a smart choice for any home. Use this detailed buying guide to find the perfect blinds to match your needs and décor. Start by accurately measuring each window, then you can confidently order the right custom-fit Project Source blinds online or at your local Lowe’s store. With just a little DIY handy work, you’ll soon be enjoying the stylish looks, smooth operation, and just-right light filtering of quality Project Source mini blinds. They will provide the ideal finishing touch for any room.