There is a difference between cut to fit shutters and custom made shutters, and this difference often results in a fairly noticeable difference in the overall quality of the shutters. For example, when buying Plantation shutters Home Depot, Lowes and other similar stores probably carry a range of cut to fit shutters, that they loosely term as custom made. These shutters are actually not custom made, they are usually mass manufactured at standard sizes that are then ‘customized’ to fit the size of your windows by cutting them down in size. True customized shutters are specifically made to the exact window size you specify.
For the mass produced shutters, in order to have the ability to cut the shutters down to size they are usually made with a taller rails and much wider stiles than a custom designed shutter, as this is what will be trimmed in order for the shutters to fit your exact window size. Consequently, often you will find that the areas around the shutter, the stiles and rails, are thick and the louver area is naturally reduced. This results in less light coming into the room and an impeded view through the shutter.
True custom designed plantation shutters have smaller rails and stiles with more area for the louvers. Consequently you will get more light and more of a view by installing custom shutters. You will also be able to have them built exactly how you want them, choosing the stain and finish, the actual louver width and the type of louver used.
Another major difference, aside from the quality, between cut to fit and custom made shutters is the price. You will usually have to pay more for custom made shutters, however if you are already going to all the expense of having them made the additional cost is probably worth it, as the end product will look much better once installed in your windows. If ordering plantation shutters online, be sure to find out if you can order cut to fit shutters before putting in your order.