When planning home design projects, in addition to curtains and other window coverings, blinds should also be a consideration for window treatments. Blinds are a versatile choice for any window. They've grown in popularity over the years due to their affordability and utility. They're durable, easy to care for and they're easy to adjust for light filtering purposes.

Blinds come in a wide variety of materials, sizes and colors. Here is a primer on the types of blinds available.

1) Venetian blinds are made from aluminum, vinyl or plastic. The slats vary in width, from one to three inches, and they're each slightly curved to compactly fit together. Slats are generally connected by nylon cord. In some cases, twill tape hides this cord and pulley mechanism, and makes for a nice, clean finish on the window blinds. They can be raised and lowered for complete access to the window, or they can be adjusted in the down position to let in light. They come in decorator colors, for a custom look. Also, the twill tape can be color-matched to provide an accent to your room décor.

2) Wood slat blinds feature thicker slats made of wood. They're generally stained or painted, and operate like all other slats. They add richness to any room.

3) Mini blinds have become overwhelmingly popular in recent years. They are reasonably priced, and they come in a wide variety of slat sizes, widths and colors for the perfect fit. A new place to find blinds is between the glass on double hung or casement windows, thus eliminating maintenance of blinds while still having all the benefits of them. Another benefit to this type of in-window blind is unobstructed access to the windows they're hung in.

4) Vertical blinds are popular on wide, sweeping windows and doors. They can be opened and closed for letting in and keeping out light, and can be pulled entirely to one side to admit maximum light or to access a window or door. The slats are generally PVC or metal, and hang from a track above the window or door. Sometimes the slats are connected at the bottom by a cord, but you can also find them without this feature. Some are electric, and operated by remote control.

5) Woven blinds don't have slats that you can open and close. Instead, they feature very narrow slats that are woven together. Sunlight comes through the narrow spaces between the slats. They can be operated by a draw string, or by rolling them up to allow light in.

With all the choices of blinds in the marketplace, it makes sense to know the features and benefits of each type, so you can choose the blind that's best for you.