Vertical blinds break, especially if you’ve got kids or pets. Instead of running out and buying new slats, there’s a quick fix with what you have on hand.

Step 1: Supplies:

Broken Slat

Business Card (or any cardboard)

Scissors

Pencil

Packing tape

Step 2: Get Your Broken Slat

Get your broken slat. Chances are you can’t find the broken piece out of the top.

Step 3: Make a New Piece

If you can’t find the broken part, we’ll just make a new one from a business card. Cut a small piece out of the business card. Fit it under the broken space and mark it. Trim it to fit inside.

Step 4: Tape It In

Cut some packing tape. Place it under the space; lay your cut piece on it. Trim the tape so when you fold it over it does not cover the hole.

Step 5: Cut Another Strip of Tape

Cut another strip of tape. Cut this one just a little bit wider than the piece you taped in. Slip the piece of tape into the hole and wrap it around the piece that is taped in.