A picture may be worth a thousand words, but sometimes a few words can really help you tell a display’s story.  The store next door to ours, Art Gecko, has recently added some compelling text to their colorful and engaging window displays. I happened to walk by one evening and watched their graphic artist at work, and was impressed by how easy she made it look.

Traditionally, if you wanted words in your window you purchased pre-made vinyl letters and applied them on the inside of the window.  This required a great deal of advance planning, and when it was time to change the display you had to use a razor-blade to remove the adhesive letters one by one.

The technique that Art Gecko has developed allows for more spontaneity, and for an artistic look in keeping with their hand-made imported merchandise.  The staff at Art Gecko kindly agreed to share their technique and the details of the materials they use so that I could pass them along to you.

The outline of the letters on the inside of the window could alternately be done using a narrow brush with a washable tempera paint, which will give you more color options.  A wider brush and this type of paint is ideal for filling in large letters like the word SALE.  Art Gecko uses Sargent Art-Time Washable Tempera paint, which is available at many art supply stores.

Once the letters have been painted on the inside of the window, the outside outline is of course washed off (you wouldn’t want anyone to rub against it). The words on the inside of the window can stay until you are ready for a new display.

This technique can also be used in the store if you have any glass or windows in your displays that need a seasonal touch, or some words to draw attention to a line of products.  Crayons, markers and paints —  what a great opportunity to let your creative side have the last word!

Happy Retailing,

Carol “Orange” Schroeder