Repair Guidance for Duette® and Applause® Honeycomb Shades with Standard Cordlock

Preparation

1. Order Parts
2. Remove the Shade from the Window
3. Remove the Cordlock from the Headrail
4. Separate the Headrail from the Fabric
5. Disassemble the Equalizer or Stop-Ball

Cord Replacement

6. Remove the Old Cords
7. Install New Cord Guides
8. Cut New Cord
9. Thread New Cord Through the Shade
10. Secure the New Cords at the Bottom

Reassembly

11. Reinstall the Bottom Rail
12. Reassemble the Shade
13. Thread and Install a New Cordlock
14. Attach and Reinstall the Cordlock
15. Install End Caps and Reinstall the Shade

Final Assembly

16. Install the Equalizer
17. Attach the Designer Tassel
18. Test Shade Operation
19. Install Cord Cleats

Support

16. Repair Service Eligibility
17. Need More Help?

Order Parts

All parts shown below can be ordered at parts.hunterdouglas.com.

Restring Kit in White Tiara #1040034	Ultrawear Cord #2680000000	Cord Thread Tool #1014259
Equalizer & Tassel KIT #2931440785	3/4" Cord Guide #2970300000	3/8" Cord Guides #2950100000
Tassle/Universal Cover #2930440661	Stop Ball #2930563000	Washer #2930130000
Pockets and Ferrule #3200156000C	Cord Cleats #KIT2728

Remove the Shade from the Window

Before beginning any cord or hardware repair, the shade needs to be taken out of the window. This makes the repair process easier, safer, and prevents damage to the fabric or headrail while you work.

• Standard brackets: Fully raise the shade, loosen the tab screws, and remove the headrail.
• Swivel brackets: Fully raise the shade and rotate the swivel arm to release the headrail.

Need to order new brackets? Go to parts.hunterdouglas.com. For standard brackets, use #KIT2205 for 3/4" pleat fabrics, or #KIT2001 for 3/8" pleat fabrics. For swivel brackets, use #KIT2323 for 3/4" pleat fabrics, or #KIT2319 for 3/8" pleat fabrics.

Remove the Cordlock from the Headrail

The cordlock must be taken out so the worn cords can be removed and replaced. Taking it apart also gives you access to the threading path, which is important for correct reassembly and smooth operation afterward.

1. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to gently pry the cordlock and cover from the headrail.
2. Observe how cords are threaded for reassembly.
3. Cut the cords near the rail and pull them out of the cordlock.
4. Push up with your thumb to detach the cover, then pull it off completely.

Separate the Headrail from the Fabric

Removing the headrail from the fabric gives you full access to the cords and internal components that need repair. This step also makes it easier to handle the fabric stack without putting stress on the headrail.

1. Hold the fabric stack firmly.
2. Slide the headrail off the top of the fabric stack.

Disassemble the Equalizer or Stop-Ball

These instructions allow you to remove the old lift cords and prepare the hardware for reassembly. Taking apart the equalizer or stop-ball ensures that worn components are replaced while reusable pieces, like the tassel and cord, are kept for later use.

Determine the cordlock type used on your shade. There are four possible types: Type A, Type B, Type C, and Type D.

Type A

If your shade uses Type A, skip this step and continue to Remove the Old Cords.

Type B

1. Insert a flat screwdriver into the slot at the bottom of the stop-ball.
2. Carefully pry off the stop-ball cover.
3. Pull out and discard both the equalizer and the lift cords.
4. Do not discard the following parts:
   • Tassel (not shown)
   • Tassel cord
   • Stop-ball body
   • Stop-ball cover

These parts will be reused during reassembly.

Type C

1. Hold the universal cover and pull down on the tassel cord to expose the equalizer housing.
2. Pull out and discard the equalizer, the equalizer housing, and the lift cords.
3. Do not discard the tassel (not shown) or the tassel cord.
   • Set both aside for reassembly.

Type D

1. Unscrew the bottom of the stop-ball.
   • If it is intact, set it aside.
   • If damaged, discard and replace it.
2. Push the lift cords out from the top of the stop-ball.
3. If your shade has two rout cords, remove the ferrule from the shade and set it aside.
4. Discard the lift cords.
5. If the stop-ball top is intact, keep it; if damaged, discard it.
6. Do not discard the designer tassel or tassel cord.
   • Set them aside for reassembly.

Remove the Old Cords

Taking out the old cords is an essential step before installing new ones. This clears out worn or damaged components and makes room for fresh cord guides and lift cords, ensuring the shade will operate smoothly once reassembled.

Determine which bottom rail configuration your shade uses:

If your shade uses a Pocket and Ferrule System:

1. Pull the lift cord down from the pocket to release the ferrule.
   • Tip: Use tweezers or needle nose pliers if the cord is difficult to reach.
   • Alternatively, use a flat-blade screwdriver to gently pry up the pocket.
2. Cut the cord and discard the following parts:
   • Pocket
   • Ferrule
   • Cut lift cord

If your shade uses a Washer System:

1. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to pry off one end cap from the bottom rail.
   • Note: Keep the end cap for reuse during reassembly.
2. While holding the fabric stack in place, slide the bottom rail off the fabric.
3. Pull the washers and lift cords from the bottom of the fabric stack or the rail.
   • Discard both the washers and the cords.
4. Remove the cord guides from the top of the fabric stack.
   • Discard the cord guides.

Install New Cord Guides

New cord guides help the lift cords move smoothly through the shade and prevent wear on the fabric. Replacing them ensures the repaired shade operates evenly and reduces the chance of cords fraying or binding over time.

1. Choose new cord guides that match your fabric width.
2. Ensure the metal filler strip at the top is flush and aligned.
3. Insert new cord guides into the top cell, without pushing past the filler strip.
4. Extend the fabric cells to check for free movement.

Cut New Cord

Cutting new lift cords to the right length ensures the shade will raise and lower evenly after repair. This step also gives you enough extra cord to complete threading, adjustments, and final assembly without running short.

1. Measure each lift cord using this formula: shade height + shade width + 24 in.
2. Rotate the spool to unwind cord—do not twist.

Thread New Cord Through the Shade

Threading the new cords through the fabric restores the lifting function of your shade. This step ensures each cord follows the correct path so the shade operates smoothly and stays properly aligned.

1. Use the threading tool from the bottom rail up through the fabric and out the top cord guide.
2. Attach the cord to the threading tool loop.
3. Pull the tool downward to route the cord.
4. Repeat for all cords.

Secure the New Cords at the Bottom

Securing the new lift cords keeps them anchored so the shade can raise and lower without slipping. This step locks the cords in place at the bottom rail, ensuring reliable operation and preventing the cords from pulling back through the fabric.
 

Determine which bottom rail configuration your shade uses:

If your shade uses a Pocket and Ferrule System:

1. If you are replacing the pocket, thread the lift cord through the new pocket.
   • Insert the pocket into the hole in the bottom rail.
   • Press it in so it sits snug against the rail.
   • Note: You can remove the ferrule that comes attached to the pocket if you're replacing it with a new one.
2. Thread a ferrule onto the end of each lift cord.
   • The tapered end of the ferrule should face the pocket.
3. Loop the cord around the ferrule and back through the ferrule a second time.
4. Pull a few inches of cord through the ferrule and tighten the loop.
   • Make sure the loop drops into the notch on the side of the ferrule before tightening fully.
5. Press the completed ferrule securely into the pocket.

If your shade uses a Washer System:

1. Thread the end of the lift cord coming out of the fabric stack through a washer.
   • Washers are included in the replacement kit.
2. Pull the cord taut so that the washer sits snugly against the bottom of the fabric stack.
3. Tie a triple knot directly beneath the washer.
   • The washer prevents the cord from slipping back through the shade.
4. Note: The washer and knot will be hidden when the bottom rail is reinstalled.

Reinstall the Bottom Rail

Reattaching the bottom rail secures the fabric stack and gives the shade its finished structure. This step ensures the fabric is held firmly in place and the shade will operate smoothly once the cords are tightened.

1. Insert the fabric stack into the bottom rail.
2. Ensure the filler strip edge catches under the lip.

Reassemble the Shade

Putting the shade back together reconnects the fabric, cords, and headrail into one working unit. This step ensures everything is properly aligned so the shade will raise and lower smoothly without snags or uneven movement.

1. Lay lift cords along the top cell toward the cordlock side.
2. Align cord guides and avoid tangling.
3. Slide the headrail back over the top cell.
4. Gather fabric away from edges to prevent snagging.
5. On newer Duette® models, guide tabs must align with rear headrail channel.
   
   

Thread and Install a New Cordlock

Installing a new cordlock is what restores the locking function of your shade. This step ensures the lift cords are properly routed so the shade can raise, lower, and lock securely in place during everyday use.

1. Insert the threading tool up through the bales and out the top of the cordlock.
2. Loop all of the lift cords through the threading tool.
3. Pull the threading tool downward so the cords pass through the cordlock and bales.
4. Run the cords under the locking tab inside the cordlock, if your product has one.
   • Note: Keep the cords straight and do not cross them.

Attach and Reinstall the Cordlock

Securing the cordlock back into the headrail is what allows the lift cords to work with the locking mechanism. This step ensures the shade operates correctly and that the cords stay properly threaded and tensioned during everyday use.

1. Attach the cordlock cover:
   • Snap the rear of the cover into place first.
   • Then snap the front of the cover into place.
2. Raise the fabric stack:
   • Pull the lift cords straight down from the cordlock to fully raise and tightly stack the fabric.
3. Reinstall the cordlock:
   • While holding the cords taut, align the cordlock with the grooves inside the headrail.
   • Slide the cordlock all the way into the headrail.
   • Tip: Keep tension on the cords as you insert the cordlock to prevent them from traveling back through the fabric stack or becoming twisted or pinched.

Install End Caps and Reinstall the Shade

Attaching the end caps and reinstalling the shade completes the repair and secures the headrail back into the window. These instructions ensure the shade is properly supported, aligned, and ready for everyday use.

1. Align and install the end caps.
   • Duette® shades changed to curved rails in September 2003.
   • Applause® shades changed to curved rails in April 2012.
   • Note: Your product may use either curved or rectangular end caps, depending on when it was manufactured.
2. For standard brackets:
   • Keep the shade fully raised and tightly stacked.
   • Hold the shade so the colored side of the fabric and the cordlock face you.
   • Insert the headrail into the brackets at an angle.
   • Rotate the headrail upward until it snaps into place.
   • Tighten the tab screw on each bracket until snug.
   • Do not overtighten.
   • Check: Make sure no fabric is pinched between the headrail and bracket tabs.
3. For swivel brackets:
   • Keep the shade fully raised and tightly stacked.
   • Place the headrail into the brackets.
   • Push the bracket tab in to rotate the swivel arm to the closed position, locking the headrail into place.

Install the Equalizer (Type A, B, C, or D)

The equalizer keeps the lift cords balanced so the bottom rail stays level when you raise or lower the shade. Installing it correctly also helps the cordlock function smoothly and ensures your shade operates as designed.

Use the links below to go directly to your cordlock type: Type A, Type B, Type C, and Type D.

Type A

1. Release the cordlock:
   • Pull the cords toward the center of the shade.
   • Slowly lower the shade to the desired position.
   • Lock the cords by pulling them outward.
   • Note: Do not let go until the cords are locked. Confirm the locking mechanism is engaged at the bales.
2. Prepare the equalizer:
   • Snap the wedge piece off the equalizer body.
     
     
   • Position the stop-ball or universal cover above the equalizer.
   • Place the equalizer on the cords, about 1" below the cordlock bales.
   • Insert the cords with the smaller end of the equalizer facing up.
     
     
3. Partially insert the wedge:
   • Keep the cords taut.
   • Slide the wedge halfway into the equalizer.
   • Ensure the rib contacts the cords.
   • Note: Do not fully lock the wedge yet—final adjustments will be made later.
     
     
4. If using a pocket and ferrule system:
   • Locate the ferrule in the bottom rail pocket.
   • Pull the ferrule using the excess cord or needle nose pliers if trimmed.
     
     
   • To rethread: Pass the cord through the ferrule, around, and back through the tapered end. Ensure the loop seats into the ferrule notch.
     
     
   • To shorten: Hold below the ferrule and slide it upward.
     
     
   • To lengthen: Hold between the ferrule and pocket and slide it downward.
     
     
   • Replace the ferrule in the pocket.
   • Tape any excess cord to the bottom rail or tuck it into the groove.
5. Tassel installation:
   • Thread all lift cords through the tassel.
   • Adjust to level the bottom rail.
   • Tie a double knot two-thirds of the way down from the cordlock.
     
     
   • Trim off any excess cord.

Type B

1. Release the cordlock and lower the shade as described in Type A.
2. Use the threading tool to pull the cords through the slot at the top of the stop-ball.
   
   
3. Prepare the equalizer:
   • Snap off the wedge.
     
     
   • Position the stop-ball or universal cover above the equalizer.
   • Place the equalizer about 1" from the cordlock bales.
   • Insert cords with the smaller end of the equalizer facing up.
     
     
4. Partially install the wedge:
   • Keep the cords taut.
   • Slide the wedge halfway into place, with the rib against the cords.
     
     
5. If using a washer system:
   • Pull cords individually to level the rail or together to adjust height.
   • When aligned, push the wedge in firmly to lock it in place.
   • Note: Do not cross the cords—crossed cords prevent proper locking.
6. Secure the wedge:
   • Use pliers or press the wedge flat against a surface to finish locking it.
7. Install into stop-ball:
   • Insert the equalizer into the stop-ball.
   • Trim the cords to about 4" below the equalizer.
     
     
   • Twist the cord ends to fit inside the stop-ball and close it.
     
     
   • Snap the stop-ball cover onto the stop-ball body.
     
     
8. If using a pocket and ferrule:

   • Follow the same steps for adjustment as Type A.

     .

Type C

1. Release the cordlock and lower the shade as described above.
2. Use the threading tool to pass the cords through the top of the universal cover.
   
   
3. Prepare the equalizer:
   • Snap off the wedge.
     
     
   • Place the equalizer about 1" below the cordlock bales.
   • Insert the cords with the smaller end of the equalizer facing up.
     
     
4. Partially install the wedge:
   • Keep cords taut.
   • Slide the wedge halfway in, ensuring the rib contacts the cords.
   • Do not fully lock until adjustments are made.
5. If using a washer system:
   • Pull cords individually to level the shade or together to adjust height.
   • Lock the wedge in fully once aligned.
   • Use pliers or pressure to finish seating the wedge.
   • Ensure cords are not crossed.
     
     
6. Install into the equalizer housing:
   • Select a housing from the kit.
   • Insert the knotted tassel cord into the slot at the base.
   • Place the equalizer into the housing.
   • Wrap the remaining cords around the base (up to four times), then pass them through the bottom slot.
   • Hold the cords and slide the universal cover over the housing.
   • Confirm bottom rail alignment and trim excess lift cords (do not trim the tassel cord).
     
     
7. If using a pocket and ferrule:
   • Follow the same ferrule rethreading, shortening, and lengthening steps as in Type A.

Type D

1. Thread the lift cords through the top of the stop-ball.
   • Reuse the stop-ball top if it is undamaged.
   • For two-cord configurations, add a clear ferrule before proceeding.
2. Slide the stop-ball top to about 1" below the cordlock bales.
   • Tie a double knot at the ends of the lift cords.
     
     
3. Pull the cords and ferrule into the stop-ball top.
   • Trim the cord ends flush with the bottom of the top.
     
     
4. Screw the bottom of the stop-ball (with tassel cord and tassel) onto the top until you feel it click.
   
   

Note: If replacing a damaged stop-ball bottom, insert the tassel cord into the base, tie a double knot, then attach it to the stop-ball top.

Attach the Designer Tassel

Use these steps if your tassel has come apart or the cord length needs adjustment. This style includes a two-piece design with a separate cover and outer body that snap together.

1. Insert the tassel cord through the hole in the top of the tassel cover (opaque piece).

2. Tie a knot at your desired cord length, then pull the knot inside the cover.

3. Trim the cord if needed.

4. Place the tassel body around the cover.

5. Squeeze the sides of the tassel cover together while sliding it into the tassel body until it clicks.

Tip: After reassembling, ensure the tassel is secure and the pieces don’t separate easily.

To Adjust Tassel Length

1. Grip both pieces of the tassel and gently separate them.

2. Slide the cover off and untie the knot.

3. Repeat the steps above to retie and reinstall at a new length.

Test Shade Operation

Once reassembled, it’s important to test your shade to make sure it’s operating smoothly and locking properly. This ensures that the repair was successful and that the cordlock mechanism is working as intended.

1. Keep the cord close to the fabric while operating the shade.
   • This helps maintain consistent alignment and function.
2. To raise or lower the shade, move the cord toward the center of the shade to disengage the cordlock.
3. To lock the shade in position, return the cord to its original location or pull it outward, away from the shade.

Install Cord Cleats

To help keep your home safer and more organized, cord cleats provide a secure place to wrap excess cords out of reach of children and pets. Installing them is a simple way to improve daily use and meet safety recommendations.
 

1. Mount the cord cleats 6" to 12" apart, with the bottom cleat at least 64" above the floor.
   • This ensures child safety and proper cord management.
2. Drill ⅛" pilot holes into the mounting surface.
   • Suitable surfaces include wood, drywall, or metal.
3. Attach the cord cleats using the 1" screws provided in the kit.
4. After each use of the shade, wrap any excess cord securely around the cleats.

Note: If the full cord length does not fit on the cleats, install the cleats slightly farther apart to accommodate the extra wrap.

Repair Service Eligibility

Repairs for Duette® and Applause® Honeycomb Shades with standard cordlock are available only at select locations, while supplies last. If your product cannot be repaired or parts are no longer available, a replacement shade may be recommended. Please contact your local dealer to discuss available options.

Need More Help?

If you have additional questions, we recommend reaching out to your original dealer or installer for support.

If you’re not sure who installed your window treatments, you can use our Dealer Locator to find a local expert or chat with an agent at help.hunterdouglas.com for further assistance.

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