This $3 Christmas window display idea from TikTok has gone viral – and it is easy to recreate in your own home

Give your windows a festive update with this delightful – and affordable – Christmas window display trick

Christmas window display with chalk snowman
(Image credit: Kyryl Gorlov / Alamy Stock Photo)

There's nothing like festive window décor to create instant Christmas curb appeal. After all, it may be cold outside, but by adding beautiful and whimsical touches to your scheme, you’re sure to warm hearts from the inside. 

While your windows aren’t likely to be central to your Christmas decor ideas, creating small areas of festive cheer around the home can be fun and immersive, especially if you get the children involved with the decorating, which is why when we saw this delightful, simple and cost-effective TikTok window chalk hack had gone viral  – we knew we had to share it with you. 

This viral DIY window Christmas hack will turn heads  

Christmas window decor, much like Christmas fireplace ideas, truly comes into its own at this time of year. They offer up extra surface space for decorating, and if you’re clever about it, have the added benefit of creating an atmosphere both inside and outside your home. But not every Christmassy arrangement has to include greenery; window chalk is a playful and imaginative way to reimagine your windows for Christmas, and it is easy and cheap. 

Liquid window chalk markers or pens are perfect for writing messages and creating beautiful art on any glass surface, not just windows. Using your chalk pen to adorn a display is a great way to creatively decorate for the holiday season.

Christmas window display with chalk marker merry christmas display

(Image credit: Ginger Ray)

Here's what you will need:

1. Clean you windows 

The first step is to ensure your windows are clean and streak-free. You can do this in a number of ways, either through homemade solutions such as vinegar and even baking sofa, or you can use a chemical-based cleaner. This bestselling window cleaner from Amazon is a top pick and has been rated 4.5 stars by customers. 

2. Decide which direction your display will face

Next, you need to decide on not only your chosen design but also which direction it will face. Most designs are meant to be read from the outside – by people walking past your home. It is nice to see a festive design welcoming friends and family into your home come Christmas Day. 

3. Choose the right tool

Good for artists and beginners alike, liquid chalk markers not only look the best and stand out the most, but they are also easier to use than paint or snow spray. 

For a typically festive display, use white makers, which are reminiscent of snow. However, for an added splash of festive color, we also like to use green and red alongside white.

Christmas window display with chalk snowflakes

(Image credit: Getty Images / fotostorm)

4. Start slowly and take breaks 

If you are new to writing and drawing on glass, you'll want to start slow. 

When I tried this chalk window display hack, I started with a few snowflakes and baubles. It does take a bit of practice to perfect your design, especially if you don't consider yourself to be particularly artistic, however, should you get it wrong, simply wipe clean and start again. 

Why not get the whole family involved, too? I found that this was a nice Christmas activity for everyone, and it will save your arm from becoming too sore if you enlist help. 

Christmas window display with snowflakes

(Image credit: Getty Images / fotostorm)

5. Clean up carefully 

If you've used a liquid chalk pen that is water-soluble, like this Amazon one we suggested above, then you should be able to simply white clean with water and a damp cloth. 

Be sure to use chalk pens inside only, and avoid using them in high-traffic areas. You don't want passing hands wiping away your beautiful designs. 

Jennifer Ebert
Editor

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.