As I was writing the previous post, I tried to think of the least expensive window treatments I recommend on a regular basis. The winner by a mile is roller shades.
I’m not talking about your grandmother’s roller shades: opaque, plastic, grungy white shades with a tired looking crocheted pull hanging dejectedly from the bottom edge. No, I’m referring to translucent, simple, cloth-like roller shades in a variety of colors and textures. (They are available with blackout lining, but those tend to take on the plastic-y quality we’re trying so hard to avoid. I’ll devote a future post to room-darkening suggestions.)
If you get the free “reverse-roll” option and don’t fall for any upgrades containing the words “loop control” or “valence,” these can be a relatively inexpensive, unobtrusive way to filter light and gain privacy.
I’ve had great success with these colors from Smith + Noble (you can order free swatches online):
– Linen – Natural
– Erin – White
– Erin – Natural
– Calypso – Pearl
– Calypso – Onyx
The Calypso series is the plainest, and therefore ideal for layering under another treatment. If you’re going to use a roller shade by itself, consider something with some texture, such as the Erins or the Linen.