How to use outdoor lighting
Installing the right outdoor lights will bring your entire backyard together, and if done right, can also highlight the softer features of your garden. Whether you are having a late night snack with your family or settling down with a glass of wine, here are some budget-friendly ways you can light up your yard. These simple DIY options are a great way to bond with your family.
Geometric Light Columns
Inspired by Martha Stewart, this geometric lighting column just uses three simple materials and will be great for any outdoor party. It works best if you have a pool, as the light will be reflected in the water and make your party LIT! Even if you don’t have a pool, this charming lighting option will do wonders for your elevation.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Bamboo sticks
- 50 bulb strings of light
- Paper Lantern
Steps:
- Purchase a bamboo stick that’s at least 6 feet long. Drive the pole deep into the ground. Run a 50-bulb string of lights up one side of the pole and down the other, clip it with masking tape.
- Stack paper lanterns over the stick. Secure the lanterns to each other with tape.
Note: If You Intend To Place These Fixtures By A Swimming Pool, It Is Important That You Plug The Lights Into A Safe Circuit And Use Extension Cords Approved For Outdoor Use.
Mason Jar Lights
Who doesn’t love a mason jar! Its popularity has skyrocketed over the last few years due to its multipurpose use. They are also incredibly versatile as a crafting base. You can string lights on existing structures, or hide the foliage – recreating the night sky. Here is how you can get started:
Materials You’ll Need:
- Mason jars
- Led lights/ serial lights
- Nylon cords
- Metal rings
Steps:
- Cut the cords into 5 pieces, each 75 inches long.
- Gather the cords together and put them through the metal ring. Place the ring in the center of these cords and tie a knot below the ring.
- Tie cords together two at a time by making a knot 8 to 10 inches below. Do this to all the cords until each piece is tied. Gather all the cords together, leave some space below, and tie a knot.
- Place the serial lights into the jar, cover the holder, and hang from a sturdy branch.
String Lights
String lights are an easy, simple, and festive way of lighting your outdoor space. Drape them across some poles or walls to add a subtle background sparkle to your next outdoor gathering. Here are some styles of light you can choose from:
Edison style:
Instead of using your standard bulbs, use this for outdoor setup because it elevates over the decor with its exposed inner filaments and warm glow.
Modern Frosted:
Tired of the rustic look when it comes to your backyard? We’ve got you covered with some contemporary options. Not only is it visually appealing, the frosted tips prevent it from getting too hot, making it the perfect option for an all-nighter.
Round multicolored:
The multi-colored vintage-inspired bulbs add the perfect pop of color to every season. You can also find solar powered lighting options that automatically turn on when the sun sets.
