When you think of window decals, I bet images of 1960s contact paper stuck on windows everywhere comes to mind. Yuck! Time to erase those memories because companies are now producing window decals that are as beautiful as they are useful. 1960s be gone!

Top : Strössel Design at Rare Device, Bottom: Light Effects.

Window decals are brilliant, whether you want to hide from a peeping Tom or you have a horrible view of a brick wall. They're a quick affordable solution (affordable unless you go custom) for maintaining your privacy and showing off your amazing sense of style while still allowing the sunshine in. And decals aren't only for privacy, here are a few additional reasons why you may want to look into them as an alternate window treatment:

1. Easy on:  They cling to the window's interior allowing natural light in while obscuring the view. Windex glass, wet it with water, remove film from the roll and position it on your window. Use a squeegee to remove air bubbles and water. Allow for it to dry. Trim edges if needed. Viola!

2. Easy off. Well sorta, depending on the film you use. There are two standard options, adhesive-free static vinyl film (my preference) and adhesive-based polyester film (not my choice). For the adhesive-free vinyls, you simply locate the corner and peel. No major removal nightmares involving stinky chemicals and razor blades. If you go with the adhesive-based films, well buyer beware. They're a pain to remove. Make sure you read the item description before you purchase so you know which type of film you are buying. Examples shown in the photos you see are of the adhesive-based polyester films - the easy breezy ones.

3. Pattern choices: Abundant! Companies manufacturer some pretty amazing patterns and since most come on a roll with designs that are multi-directional, so you can install them vertically or horizontally according to your liking.

4. Fade protection: Some can also be placed on windows to shield your furnishings from UV radiation to avoid your furnishings from fading in the sun, including artwork. If this is a concern, ask the company if the film you are interested in offers UV light protection.

5. Custom patterns available: Some companies customize film to suit your needs. You may have frosted numbers created to install on a transom window over your front door or even your family name. You can also send in your artwork and have it transformed into window film.

6. Application Options: Glass windows, shelves, interior doors, shower doors, and tables. Get creative!

Designs by Emma Jeffs.

For these reasons alone, it's obvious that this product is a terrific window treatment for the modern home. Would you like to learn more and view full-color examples of how and where to install them? Interested in purchasing? Here are a few of my favorites resources:

Tord White Floral window film - This is such a beautiful pattern, it's also available in red... And there are more where this came from over at Design Your Wall.

Emma Jeffs: I've been a long time fan of her highly decorative window film available here and here. The white Moroccan tile pattern in white is my favorite.

Strössel Design: Fabulously modern patterns from Sweden, available at Rare Device.

Brume: Their window film not only allows light in your space and gives you privacy, but because it laminates the glass it's nearly impossible to smash. You can also apply it to any glass surface.

Purlfrost: Plain or patterned prints are available as well as custom works available -- just send over your artwork!

Light Effects: Very unique film that looks like stained glass along with everything else from plain to fancy.

Additional companies specializing in decorating window film:

Decorative Film and Artscape.

Patterns from Brume.

Do you use window film? What has been your personal experience? If you're new to seeing it, what are your thoughts?

(images top: bottom:)