
Tiny Boats, Big Dreams: Blinds By Design LLC Brings Miniature Maritime Magic to Life
Blinds By Design LLC, a West Linn, Oregon-based company (located at 4500 Damon Dr, 97068-2163, and reachable at 845-676-7190), isn't exactly what you think. While the name might suggest window coverings, this innovative business is making waves – albeit tiny ones – with its stunning collection of miniature boats. They’ve quietly become a go-to source for hobbyists, collectors, and anyone who loves the charm of handcrafted, scaled-down vessels. You might be wondering, “Blinds By Design…boats? How did that happen?” Well, the story’s a bit of a fun one. The company founder, a lifelong model boat enthusiast, originally started building custom blinds as a way to fund his passion project. Turns out, he was really good with detail and precision work. Over time, demand for his miniature boats started to outweigh the blind business. He realized people were less interested in covering their windows, and more interested in owning a piece of nautical art! So, he made the leap, and Blinds By Design LLC officially set sail as a dedicated miniature boat builder. But these aren't your grandpa's basic model boats. These are carefully crafted works of art, built with a serious attention to detail. We're talking meticulously scaled decks, tiny lifeboats, realistic rigging, and even miniature paint jobs that capture the essence of iconic vessels. What kind of boats are we talking about? Blinds By Design LLC offers a surprisingly diverse fleet. They cater to a lot of different tastes. You'll find: Classic Sailboats: Think majestic schooners, elegant sloops, and towering clipper ships. These are perfect for anyone who appreciates the romance of the age of sail. They painstakingly recreate historical details, making these boats look like they've sailed right out of a painting. They've got everything from the Bluenose to replicas of ships from the America's Cup. Vintage Motorboats: If you're more into the early days of power boating, they've got you covered. These boats capture the sleek lines and retro charm of classic Chris-Crafts, and other wooden speedboats. The detail on these is incredible - you can almost hear the engines roar! Tugs and Workboats: For those who prefer something a little more rugged, they offer realistic miniature tugboats, fishing boats, and other working vessels. These boats are built to look like they've seen a lifetime of hard work, complete with weathering and authentic details. Military Vessels: They also do a range of miniature warships, from historical sailing frigates to WWII-era destroyers. These boats are incredibly detailed, and are popular with military history buffs and collectors. Custom Builds: This is where Blinds By Design LLC really shines. They love taking on custom projects. Got a specific boat you want recreated? A family heirloom you want miniaturized? They can build it. They work closely with customers to ensure the finished product is exactly what they envision. What makes Blinds By Design LLC boats different? It's not just about the variety. It's about the quality. Handcrafted with Care: Every boat is built by hand, using traditional techniques and high-quality materials. This isn't mass-produced stuff. This is artistry. Attention to Detail: Seriously, the detail is incredible. They don't cut corners. From the individual planks on the deck to the tiny brass fittings, everything is meticulously crafted. Realistic Scale: They pay close attention to scale, ensuring that the boats look just like their full-sized counterparts. Durable Construction: These boats aren't just pretty – they're built to last. They use durable materials and construction techniques to ensure that the boats can withstand handling and display. Perfect for Display: Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, these boats are perfect for displaying in your home, office, or collection. They look great on shelves, desks, or even in custom-built dioramas. Who are these boats for? Honestly? A lot of people. Collectors: Serious collectors will appreciate the quality, detail, and authenticity of these boats. Hobbyists: These boats are a great way to get involved in the model boat hobby. Nautical Enthusiasts: Anyone who loves boats, the sea, and maritime history will appreciate these miniature vessels. Gift-Givers: These boats make unique and thoughtful gifts for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Home Decorators: These boats can add a touch of nautical charm to any room. Anyone who appreciates beautiful, handcrafted objects. Where can you find them? While Blinds By Design LLC doesn’t have a traditional brick-and-mortar storefront, they're readily accessible online. You can browse their current collection and request custom builds through their website. They also frequently showcase their work at model boat shows and craft fairs. (Check their website or social media pages for upcoming events.) You can reach them directly at 845-676-7190 or through the contact form on their website. Blinds By Design LLC: It’s a bit of an unexpected name for a boat builder, but their passion for creating miniature maritime masterpieces is anything but. These aren't just model boats; they're tiny works of art that capture the spirit of the sea. They really are something special.