Creating a Strong Gazebo Display for an Art Market

Setting up a gazebo display for an art market can be a daunting task, but with the right strategy, you can create a captivating and professional space that draws people in. Here are some tried-and-tested tips for making your gazebo stand out and showcase your art in the best possible light.

1. Choosing the Right Gazebo

Invest in a sturdy, weather-resistant gazebo that can withstand wind and rain. Opt for a neutral or branded colour that complements your artwork and doesn’t distract from it. Consider sidewalls for protection and to create a more immersive experience.

2. Hanging Artworks

One of the most effective ways to hang artwork in a gazebo is by using heavy-duty mesh display panels or grid walls. These provide stability and allow you to hook frames securely. Alternatively, attach strong fishing lines or wire between the gazebo poles to hang lightweight pieces. Use S-hooks or Velcro straps to keep frames from swaying.

If you prefer a rustic or minimalist look, consider hanging lightweight canvases directly from the roof frame using decorative rope or twine. Command hooks can also be useful for smaller, framed pieces.

3. Easel Ideas

Easels are fantastic for creating a dynamic display and drawing attention to key pieces. Consider using:

Traditional wooden easels for a classic, professional touch.
Tabletop easels for smaller works that sit on your display table.
Adjustable metal easels that are lightweight and easy to transport.
Collapsible A-frame easels for versatility and easy storage.

Place a prominent piece on an easel at the front of your gazebo to draw people in, and use a few scattered throughout the space for balance.

4. Displaying Greetings Cards

Greetings cards are a great way to offer affordable options and attract casual buyers. Use wooden browser stands or tiered wire racks to display them neatly. Group cards by theme or colour to make browsing easier. Position them at eye level or on the front edge of your table to catch attention.

6. Wooden Browser Stands

Wooden browser stands are perfect for displaying prints and flat works. These stands make it easy for visitors to flip through your collection without creating a mess. Place them on the corners of your table or at the back of your gazebo for a casual, welcoming feel.

7. Offer a Range of Price Points

Cater to different budgets by offering both high-ticket items and smaller, more affordable pieces. Have original artworks, prints, cards, and even small merchandise like stickers or badges. Clearly label prices to avoid confusion.

8. Branding and Presentation

Your branding should be clear and consistent. Use matching signs, business cards, and packaging that reflect your artistic style. A banner at the top of your gazebo with your logo and social media handles ensures people know who you are. Keep a stack of business cards handy and consider a small display of your story or artist statement to create a personal connection.

9. Budget-Friendly Tips for First-Time Artists

If you’re new to art markets or working with a tight budget, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to create a visually appealing stall without spending a fortune.

DIY Display Elements: Use repurposed wooden crates as display shelves or stacked plinths. Upcycle old picture frames as signage holders or mount them on a pegboard for a quirky touch.
Affordable Table Coverings: Instead of splashing out on custom-made tablecloths, look for plain, solid-coloured fabric from a charity shop or use a painter’s dust sheet for a rustic vibe.
Creative Hanging Solutions: Instead of investing in expensive display grids, hang lightweight artwork on twine strung between the gazebo poles using mini clothes pegs. This gives a relaxed, bohemian feel.
Eye-Catching Banners: Make your own banner using canvas fabric and fabric paint or print your logo onto a sheet and pin it up. Consider using bunting or paper garlands for a playful, welcoming look.
Affordable Signage: Use chalkboards or hand-painted signs to label prices and product categories. These add character and are easy to update.
Second-Hand Easels and Props: Check out charity shops or online marketplaces for pre-loved easels and display items. A little sanding and a coat of paint can give them a fresh look.
Showcase Smaller Works: Have a selection of low-cost items like postcards, bookmarks, or mini prints. These are more accessible to casual buyers and can still be beautifully displayed.

10. Additional Display and Preparation Tips From Our Artists

DIY Display Boards: 'Years ago, I tried adding homemade display boards to the back of the table with clamps. It worked well for smaller, more lightweight pieces.'
Using the Gazebo Structure: If your table is close to a gazebo wall or panel, you might be able to hang work from the structure itself using your own hanging system. Just ensure it doesn’t compromise stability—this won’t work well in windy conditions. If using your own gazebo, bring weights for the legs, such as large lemonade bottles filled with water, exercise weights, or gazebo-specific weights.
Tablecloth Considerations: A tablecloth that reaches the floor looks more professional, hides packaging and supplies, and makes your display neater. Iron it beforehand for a polished look. If using various display boxes, place them under the cloth to create height and a streamlined effect. If it’s windy, secure it with table clips, heavy display stands, or pebbles. 'Elasticated table covers are much easier than ironing cloths. They can be purchased online. If you are using cotton cloths, make sure you also bring clothes pegs or clamps to fasten to table legs.'
Weather-Ready Clothing: 'Bring clothes for all weather conditions so you stay comfortable.'
Signage and Branding: If you have a brand/business name, create signage to display on or in front of your table. Ensure your prices are clearly displayed as well.
Spare Stock: 'If possible, bring extra stock in case you sell more than expected.'
Greeting Card Displays: Investing in a decent greetings card stand will save you time and improve presentation.
Handling Cash: If selling items for cash, bring a large enough float and store it in a secure container, preferably a bag you can keep on you. This is also a backup plan in case your card reader fails.
Chargers and Power Supply: 'Don’t forget device chargers / power pack to keep your phone and payment devices running.'
Small Touches for Visitors: Some sellers bring a bowl of wrapped sweets to make their stall more inviting.
Collecting Customer Details: Keep a clipboard with a printed chart for collecting customer details/emails.
Prize Draws: Consider offering a prize draw to encourage engagement.

Essential ‘Box of Tricks’: A small box or tin with:
- Masking tape, cello tape, gaffer tape
- Blu Tack/White Tack
- Bulldog clips, safety pins, pegs, and standard pins
- Pens, markers, and spare blank labels
- Tape measure (customers may ask for sizes)
- Scissors and a Stanley knife
- String and fishing wire

Bring a Helper: 'Having someone assist you can make the day much easier.'
Connect with Fellow Stallholders: Be friendly with neighbouring stallholders—you might need each other’s help.
Engage with Your Audience: Share your story with visitors. Social media is great, but in-person interactions leave a stronger impression.
Stay Hydrated and Energised: Bring plenty of snacks and drinks to keep yourself happy and motivated throughout the day.

Payment Solutions: I use a 'Square' card reader for taking payments at markets. There are other brands, all pretty similar. Square takes 1.75% commission and costs about £20 to buy these days. Link it to your phone and make sure it is charged up beforehand. It is all straightforward even for technophobes. Also take spare change (a float) for those rare people who use cash (usually card sales).
Seating and Sustenance: Remember to take a chair. And food!

Painter Tilly Wonham and Printmaker Nick Wonham at a Hitchin Art Fair

11. Final Preparations and Checklist

Before the market day, make sure you have everything planned and ready to go. Here’s a checklist to keep things running smoothly:

Double-check times, parking, and paperwork – Know when you need to arrive, where to park, and what paperwork (licenses, insurance, booking confirmation) you need.
Stall setup – is a table or chair provided? – Check in advance so you can bring your own if necessary.
Crates or boxes – These can be used for both transporting items and creating height and interest in your display.

Practice your setup beforehand – This helps you find the best arrangement and pack more efficiently.
Clear labels and pricing – Avoid confusion by making sure all items are clearly priced.
Business cards and artist info – Have a stack ready for potential buyers and interested visitors.
Bags and packaging – Bring paper bags, tissue paper, or other packaging materials to make sales look professional.
Charge and update your payment device, and bring a cash float – Be prepared to accept both card and cash payments.
Promote on social media and invite friends and followers – Let people know where and when you’ll be at the market.
And most importantly – snacks and drinks! – ‘Keep yourself fuelled and happy throughout the day so you can stay energised and engaged with customers.’

Final Thoughts

Creating a successful gazebo display is all about balancing practicality and aesthetics. With thoughtful setup and strategic presentation, you’ll draw in more visitors and make lasting impressions. Good luck with your next art market!

With thanks to Cathy Smale, Victoria Johns, Anja Penger-Onjett, Graham Matthews, Tilly Wonham and Nade Simmons for their valued input and expertise in contributing to this post.