DeKALB | NIU students put their merchandising skills to the test and created window displays for nine local businesses.

The displays, an end of the semester group project for members of family, consumer and nutrition sciences assistant professor Andrew Reilly’s aesthetics class, were unveiled May 3.

“We did this so students could have a real life experience and work within a store within a budget,” Reilly said.

He also wanted students to learn how to work in a group environment. Ten teams of students worked on displays for nine stores. Two teams created merchandise displays for Cracker Jax, 118 N. Third St.

“The students put frames hanging in every direction; it almost looks like they’re just floating because they used thin wires,” said Robyn Allen of MCR Framing, 137 E. Lincoln Highway. “It’s simple but very eye-catching.”

She said the store would definitely take part in the project if it was offered again.

Reilly said comments from customers would prove helpful and he is offering a prize for those willing to critique the projects.

The projects will remain on display until May 10.