Choosing custom roller blinds involves more than selecting a fabric and colour. Where the blind is fitted changes how it sits within the room, how much of the window frame you see, and how the opening is covered.
The two common options are recess fit and face fit. Understanding the difference makes it easier to discuss the appearance and light control you want before your blinds are made.
A recess fit sits inside the window opening. A face fit sits on the front of the frame or wall and overlaps the opening.
Recess fit: keep the window frame in view.
A recess-fitted roller blind sits within the window opening, also called the reveal. The roller is positioned between the inside edges of the frame, leaving the surrounding trim visible.
This gives the blind a compact appearance. It can be a good starting point when you want the window frame to remain a feature and the blind to sit neatly within it.
The recess needs enough usable depth for the selected roller and brackets. Handles, winders and the way the window opens also affect whether the blind can fit and operate comfortably.
Face fit: give the blind more coverage.
A face-fitted roller blind is mounted on the front of the window frame or, where suitable, on the surrounding wall. The fabric overlaps the opening and covers more of the frame when lowered.
In our illustration, the face-fitted blind sits on the front of the frame and leaves a slim outer border visible. The fitting position defines the arrangement; the final width is planned around the window and the coverage required.
A face fit may be worth considering when the recess is shallow or a handle limits an inside fit. The fixing surface and space in front of the window still need to be checked.
Recess fit and face fit at a glance.
| Feature | Recess fit | Face fit |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Sits within the opening and keeps the surrounding frame visible. | Sits in front of the opening and overlaps more of the frame. |
| Light coverage | Clearances beside the fabric can let light enter. | Greater overlap can help reduce light around the opening. |
| Space to check | Usable recess depth and clearance around handles or winders. | A suitable fixing surface and room for the roller and fabric. |
| Starting priority | A compact finish that shows the window frame. | Broader coverage over the window opening. |
For a bedroom, the amount of light around the blind may matter as much as its appearance. A face fit can provide more overlap, but it does not guarantee complete darkness. Light control also depends on the fabric, the distance from the window and the finished coverage.
Fabric and fitting are separate decisions. Blockout fabric stops light passing through the material; it does not seal the edges of a standard roller blind. Compare your fabric options in our guide to sunscreen, translucent and blockout roller blinds.
Which fit suits your priorities?
Start with a recess fit.
If you like the look of your window trim and want a contained finish, ask whether the recess has enough depth for the blind you have chosen.
Explore a face fit.
If reducing edge light is a priority, ask what overlap a face fit can provide and how the roller will sit on the frame or wall.
For example, you might prioritise the visible frame in a living room and greater coverage in a bedroom. If you sleep during the day or are sensitive to morning light, explain that before the fitting is decided.
Different windows may need different arrangements. A consistent fabric and colour can help coordinate the rooms while the fitting position is chosen around each opening.
What to discuss at your measure and quote.
A photo can help start the conversation, but the final fitting needs to account for the window itself. Before your appointment, make a note of:
- Your main priority: a visible frame, less edge light, privacy, or a coordinated appearance.
- How the window is used: whether it opens, which way it moves, and any handles or winders.
- What is nearby: curtains, shutters, doors or furniture that may affect the blind.
- When the room is used: especially daytime sleeping or early-morning light concerns.
At SK Screens & Blinds, we check the fitting position and available coverage alongside your fabric and control choices. That lets us discuss a suitable arrangement before the blinds are made.
Find the right fit for your windows.
Bring your preferred look and light-control priorities to a free measure and quote with our Sydney team.
Explore our roller blinds ↗ Compare fabric, fitting and control options for your home.