Tiny Boats, Big Dreams: Blinds By Design LLC Launches Detailed Miniature Vessels

West Linn, OR – October 26, 2023 – You might know Blinds By Design LLC for crafting beautiful window coverings, but they've quietly been building something else entirely. Hidden away in their West Linn workshop, the team has been meticulously designing and hand-building incredibly detailed miniature boats – and they’re finally ready to share them with the world. Yes, you read that right. Blinds By Design, the folks who help you control light and privacy, are now crafting tiny, seaworthy vessels. It sounds a bit…unexpected, right? We sat down with owner, David Miller, to find out how this fascinating side-project became a full-fledged product line. “It really started as a hobby,” Miller explained. “I’ve always loved boats, and I’m a bit of a perfectionist. I was building them for myself, just to relax, using similar skills to what we do with blinds – precise cutting, attention to detail, working with different materials. People started seeing them around the shop and asking if I’d build them one. It just…grew.” And “grew” is an understatement. These aren't your average hobby-shop kits. Blinds By Design’s miniature boats are painstakingly recreated replicas of iconic vessels, ranging from classic sailboats and tugboats to historic warships and even some modern yachts. We’re talking serious detail. “We’re not just slapping plastic together,” Miller chuckled. “We use a combination of wood – basswood, birch plywood, things like that – and a lot of brass, copper, and even fabric for the sails. Everything is scaled down, of course, but we try to get every detail right. The rigging, the deck fittings, the lifeboats – it all matters.” What sets these miniatures apart is the level of craftsmanship. Forget glue-heavy, wobbly models. These boats are built to last. The hulls are precisely cut and assembled, creating a smooth, stable base. The decks are planked with individual strips of wood, mimicking the look of a real boat. And the rigging? Forget simple string. Each line is carefully threaded and secured, creating a complex network that looks incredibly realistic. “We've been able to leverage a lot of the skills we use making blinds,” Miller pointed out. “Precision cutting is huge. We’ve got some fantastic laser cutters and woodworking tools. And honestly, the patience required to build blinds definitely translates to building these boats! It’s all about taking your time and getting it right.” What’s Available? Currently, Blinds By Design is offering a curated selection of miniature boats, with new models added regularly. Some of the popular options include: Classic Sailboats: Replicas of famous sailing yachts, like the J-Class yachts and the America’s Cup contenders. These are available in various sizes, ranging from around 8 inches to 18 inches long. Vintage Tugboats: Detailed models of working tugboats, complete with miniature winches, stacks, and lifeboats. These boats evoke a sense of nautical history. Historic Warships: Faithful reproductions of iconic warships, like the USS Constitution and the HMS Victory. These models are perfect for history buffs and collectors. Modern Yachts: Sleek and stylish models of contemporary yachts, featuring detailed interiors and exteriors. Beyond Display: Collector's Items and Gifts These miniature boats aren't just for looking at. While they make stunning display pieces for homes, offices, or nautical collections, they’re also surprisingly durable. “We’ve had people commission boats for their kids to play with – with the understanding that they're delicate, of course – but they’re built solid. They're not flimsy,” Miller said. "We've also seen them used as unique gifts – for birthdays, anniversaries, retirements…anything where you want to give something really special and handcrafted.” Blinds By Design is also open to custom commissions. Want a miniature replica of your boat? They can build it. Have a specific historical vessel in mind? They’ll research it and create a faithful reproduction. The Future is Bright (and Miniature) So, how did a window covering company end up building miniature boats? It’s an unusual story, but Miller believes it’s a natural extension of their commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. “We’re a small company, and we pride ourselves on doing things well. We’re not about mass production. We’re about creating beautiful, handcrafted products that people will cherish,” Miller explained. “These boats are a labor of love, and we’re excited to share them with the world.” Blinds By Design LLC’s miniature boats are available for purchase on their website ([website address would go here if applicable]) and at select retailers. With the holidays approaching, these unique vessels are sure to make a splash. Contact: Blinds By Design LLC 4500 Damon Dr West Linn, OR 97068-2163 845-676-7190