The Challenge: Bare windows.

The Fix: Hang matchstick roll-up shades.

The Reason: Because window treatments give a room a finished look. Because bamboo blinds let in light while offering some privacy. Because these shades come with a valance, so they can be mounted outside the window frame and still look tailored. Because custom-made blinds can cost up to 10 times as much as these ready-made ones from Orvis www.orvis.com.

The Tip: Paint the visible metal hooks used to hang the shades the same color as the window frame. If you're out of white paint, use white Liquid Paper.

The Time: Five minutes to order on-line; five minutes to install each shade.

The Cost: $97 (two 30-inch-wide blinds at $15 each; two 60-inch-wide blinds at $29 each; plus shipping).