Tiny Boats, Big Dreams: Blinds By Design LLC Sets Sail with Exquisite Miniature Vessels

Blinds By Design LLC, based in West Linn, Oregon (4500 Damon Dr, 97068-2163, and reachable at 845-676-7190), might sound like they should be fitting windows. And they used to! But this American company has completely pivoted, channeling their precision crafting skills into a surprising, and delightful, new direction: incredibly detailed miniature boats. Forget mass-produced plastic toys. We’re talking about handcrafted, museum-quality replicas and imaginative designs, all scaled down to a charming, collectible size. It’s a bit of a story, actually. Founder, Mark Henderson, always had a passion for model building. “We were doing a lot of custom window coverings, and it required a lot of precision work, a real eye for detail," he explains. “Then the pandemic hit, things slowed down with the blinds business, and I just… started building boats. It was a hobby that quickly took over!” And it’s clear to see why. These aren’t just little boats; they're works of art. Blinds By Design LLC currently offers a growing collection of miniature vessels, ranging from meticulously recreated historical ships to fantastical, one-of-a-kind designs. What’s on Offer? A Peek at the Fleet The selection is surprisingly diverse. History buffs will be thrilled with the painstakingly accurate reproductions of classic boats. Think sleek Viking longships, majestic 18th-century schooners, and even iconic tugboats, all scaled down to a few inches long. These aren’t toys to be splashed around in the bathtub; they’re display pieces, perfect for collectors, history enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates fine craftsmanship. “We’ve got a lot of people collecting the historical ones," says Henderson. "They’ll display them on mantles, desks, or even build miniature harbors.” But Blinds By Design LLC doesn’t stop at historical accuracy. They also create unique, imaginative designs. Imagine a miniature pirate ship with glowing LED lights, a whimsical mermaid-themed boat adorned with seashells, or a futuristic speed boat with sleek, modern lines. These fantasy boats add a touch of magic and personality to any space. "We really enjoy the creative freedom with the fantasy designs," Henderson adds. “We can let our imaginations run wild, and people seem to love the unique results." What Makes These Boats Special? It’s All in the Details So, what sets Blinds By Design LLC’s miniature boats apart from the competition? It’s the dedication to quality and detail. These boats aren't churned out on a factory line. Each vessel is handcrafted by skilled artisans, using a combination of traditional techniques and modern technology. Hand-Selected Materials: The company uses high-quality materials like basswood, mahogany, and various hardwoods to ensure durability and a beautiful finish. They even use real cloth for the sails on some models. Meticulous Craftsmanship: Each boat is painstakingly assembled, with every detail carefully considered. From the intricate rigging to the tiny deck fittings, no expense is spared in creating a realistic and visually stunning replica. Realistic Rigging: For sailing vessels, the rigging is a marvel of miniature engineering. Each line is carefully threaded and secured, creating a lifelike representation of a working sailing ship. Attention to Scale: The company is committed to maintaining accurate scale in all of their models. This ensures that the boats are not only beautiful but also historically accurate. Custom Options: Want a boat built to your specifications? Blinds By Design LLC offers custom boat-building services. They can recreate your favorite vessel, design a boat to match your décor, or even add personalized details like a name or initials. Beyond Collectibles: Displaying Your Miniature Fleet These boats aren’t just for collecting. They’re also beautiful display pieces that can add a touch of nautical charm to any space. Here are a few ideas: Mantelpiece Display: Arrange a collection of boats on your mantelpiece for a striking nautical display. Desk Accessory: A single boat can add a touch of personality to your desk. Bookshelf Accent: Place a boat amongst your books for a unique and eye-catching accent. Shadow Box Display: Create a miniature harbor scene inside a shadow box, complete with boats, buildings, and other nautical elements. Gift Idea: A miniature boat makes a thoughtful and unique gift for boat lovers, history buffs, or anyone who appreciates fine craftsmanship. The Future is Bright (and Filled with Boats) Blinds By Design LLC is still a relatively new player in the miniature boat market, but they're already making waves with their high-quality products and dedication to craftsmanship. They're constantly expanding their collection, adding new designs and models to meet the growing demand. “We’re really excited about the future,” says Henderson. “We’ve had a fantastic response to our boats, and we’re looking forward to continuing to create beautiful, handcrafted vessels for collectors and enthusiasts around the world." If you're looking for a unique and collectible miniature boat, or a special gift for someone who loves the sea, be sure to check out Blinds By Design LLC. You can find their selection online at [website address to be inserted here], or contact them directly at 845-676-7190. Prepare to be captivated by these tiny treasures!