How to Decorate with DIY Marquee Letters

Marquee signs have been used for generations to display details of the entertainment or performers at a venue. Since the 1930’s, marquee signs have been displayed at theaters, circus tents and at the top of arcade games to illuminate the name. Today, you can find marquee signs in many, many places, even in homes. More commonly, you’ll find marquee letters in homes to display the family’s monogram. It’s likely that most of these letters are found at antique and thrift stores, salvaged from old buildings or theaters {how cool is that?!}. But, most of the marquee letters you’ll find in homes are likely handmade!

I have found a couple of simple DIY tutorials on how to make your own Marquee Letters for you today. As a bonus, I’ve gathered a few decorating ideas. Not only does adding a marquee letter {or letters} to your decor make it fun and whimsical but, it adds a level of ambiance that is simply magical!

vintage marquee letters

Oh Happy Day has created this Vintage Marquee DIY to recreate the perfect entrance to your next movie night. She was kind enough to share her how-to, as well.

DIY Lighted Letter for decoration

Grey Likes Nesting takes a little simpler approach in her DIY Marquee Letter. Whichever of the two above tutorials you choose, you’re off to a great start in decorating your home with a little vintage charm.

Now that you’ve made your letter {or letters}, it’s time to display it. Will you highlight your family’s monogram, announce your LOVE or display your favorite saying? Here are a few ideas to get you inspired to decorate with marquee letters!

DIY Lighted Letter marquee decorations{source}

A single letter to highlight your family’s monogram in the living room or the first letter of your new baby’s name in the nursery, this idea is perfect.

DIY Decoration Inspiration with Marquee Signs{source}

I have letters in my kitchen that spell out EAT now. Why have I never thought to add lights to them? This idea would be perfect in your kitchen or dining room.

[sc:adsense ]

lighted DIY signs for a playroom
{source}

I suddenly have the desire to put a marquee lit word in every room in my house! If in no other room, the play room seems pretty obvious. What kid wouldn’t love bright colored lights cheering them on as they play?!

Christmas Light Mantel Decor{source}

Christmas is an obvious time to have lots of lights. If you prefer a marquee sign no other time of the year, Christmas must be one!

wedding reception decorating ideas
{source}

Weddings are an especially beautiful place to feature marquee signs. I love how SWEETS illuminates this beautiful dessert table at this particular wedding.

DIY Birthday Party decorations
{source}

If you’re having a movie themed birthday party, a faux marquee letter is perfect. All of the charm with less electricity!

How about a little photo inspiration? The next few photos are brilliant ways to use marquee letters in creating timeless wedding photographs.

LOVE Letters Photo Prop Ideas
{source}

Wedding Photo Inspiration with monogram letters
{source}

Tutorial Wedding Photo Inspiration
{source}

There are so many amazing ways to display marquee letters and signs. Which is your favorite that we’ve featured today? Tell us in the comments. Do you have any marquee letters or signs in your home? Have you used them for photos? Share them with us on Instagram, we’re BlissfullyDomestic.

Avatar About Melissa Hillier

Melissa lives in Florida with her husband and five kiddos. She writes about her family life at jonahbonah. When she isn’t chasing children you can find her behind her sewing machine or her camera. Connect with her on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

What do you think?

*