15 Gorgeous Ways to Decorate with Outdoor String Lights

From shiver time to merry nights , use these patio string light idea to metamorphose your backyard .

Outdoor string lights are one of the easy update you could bring in to your porch or backyard . terrace light strings ply a informal place to read a book in the summer and bring supernumerary Inner Light to the party when thefire pitruns low . Plus , terrace train visible radiation set the mood and cater a little sparkle , rather than illuminate a space for functional reasons .

Pair strand lights with candles orpathway lightingto create a warm ambiance and help guests navigate safely after dark .

patio furniture table couch drinks

Credit: Photo: Jacob Fox; Stylist: Joseph Wanek

Decorative string lights also come in many different designs , including vintage - style Edison bulbs , sleek orbs , and even lanterns , so it ’s easy to notice a strand ( or several ! ) that fits your style . String light are an inexpensive solvent for giving dark patio a little spare twinkle . See all the unlike ways you may incorporate these fun out-of-door light fixtures into your backyard .

How to Hang Patio String Lights

Before you may turn your backyard into a cozy haven , you ’ll take to knowhow to hang outside drawing string Light . First , look for barrage - engage string twinkle or induct in a few lengthiness cords if an outlet is n’t within compass . Always be sure to use lighting , extension service corduroys , and other lighting equipment that is rate for outdoor use .

When you ’re ready to hang string lights , drill love eyes into a post , tree , or wall . Then , use small metallic element carabiners to attach the string of lights to the screw eyes . This will keep the lights from slipping off a unproblematic hook in the issue of wind or tempest , and protect your patio from busted bulbs .

Choosing Outdoor String Lights

There are dozens of variety show of out-of-door string lights , so they are n’t a one - size - fits - all decor item . When shopping for string brightness level , there are two main things to consider : length and style . If you are n’t sure how many strand you ’ll need , it ’s helpful to string a spell of narration around the patio to get an exact mensuration before you order anything . If you ’re light a lowly arena , you might be able-bodied to use just one long strand of out-of-door string light .

There are also many different styles of string light , including clear medulla oblongata , mini tin - can visible light , and weave lanterns . There are also long - lasting light-emitting diode versions ( like the Better Homes & Gardens Warm White LED Outdoor String Lights ) , so shop around to ascertain a size of it and style that fits your outer space utterly .

Create Boundaries with Lights

If your backyard does n’t have the clear boundaries that a fence or terrace provides , make your own with a set of string lights . Two strands of light hung diagonally through the middle provide the space with extra faint perfect for an outdoor game Nox . Hung nonchalantly under anarboror in between terrace walls , scintillation lights are more for palm and aid determine the mode for a playfulness , relax nighttime under the stars . These also work well for screen porches that already have a chief light informant .

Create a superimposed flavour by combining build - indeck lightswith chain lights , and put up different zones — brighter for dining , softer for lounging .

Exterior String Lighting

Taking a plunge in thepool at duskis potential thanks to these stunning decorative hanging lights . Simple cosmic string lights draped over mandril beams gear up the climate for a romantic Nox swimming . Posts on an outdoor structure provide an chance to create a plunder terrace string light pattern . One set of patio string lighting is enough to get the business done without disrupting the beautiful natural environs .

Create an Outdoor Room

These terrace string light ideas show how simple kindling upgrades can elevate your entire patio . Stretched across the corner of the house , these light source line this stunning courtyard with a insidious radiance and give the picnic tabular array the feel of a sophisticated al fresco bistro .

Screened-In Patio Lighting

Brie Williams

Illuminate ascreened - in patiowith multiple rows of miniature globe light . Here , the area of string lights replaces a traditional statement light fixture , draw the eye up and leave practical light for thethree - time of year covered patio .

Al Fresco Lighting

Whether you ’re rust a solo breakfast on the patio or hosting a casual evening gathering with admirer , bowed stringed instrument lights localise over anoutdoor tableinstantly elevate an out-of-door infinite . light are an easy elbow room to bring height to a small outdoor space , because they draw the oculus up and make the expanse look large and more heart-to-heart .

Hang illume at least 8–10 feet above basis to tolerate for walking clearance and enough for a visually pleasing drape .

Landscape with String Lights

Like a scene from a fairy taradiddle , this backyard dazzle withoutdoor string lightsin the trees overhead . Complete with a comfy terrace localise and plenty of fluffy pillow , this seat area is made to be enjoyed from solar day to Nox with good company . make this look by string up several set of patio Christ Within from branches to your house to make theultimate cozy backyard corner .

Complementary Outdoor Lighting

Victoria Pearson

If you ’re debating between string light and a dependent light , why not prefer both ? Here , a large woven lantern pay heed in the center of anoutdoor pergola , while several strand of lights supply extra ambient lighting . This combination is an well-heeled path to attain a twinkling gleaming while incorporating larger voguish musical composition like the woven outdoor light fixture .

Mix Edison - mode bulb with clear string lights for an unexpected vintage look .

patio with gray deck, light wooden wall, white ceiling

Credit: Jason Donnelly

Outdoor Dinner Party

Make your terrace mesa the ultimate dining escape by decorating with string lights out of doors . This al fresco space is outfitted with a individual strand of string lights hang above its centre . The dim light set the perfect mood for enjoying belated - afternoon nutrient , boozing , and sweet . However , be sure to have extra lighting , such as outdoor sconce , usable for when the Sunday sets and the party is just getting start .

Colorful String Lights

Dana Gallagher

lowly , kickshaw string lights add a romantic ambience to an outdoor space , but colored light can have an energizing effect . Use a string of bluff lights to bestow color and personality to a space . Here , profane strand light complement the colors in the seating surface area and help break up the white exterior wall behind them .

Outdoor Twinkle Lights

If you do n’t intend your backyard can substantiate decorative train lights , think again . A DIY jam or two can make it occur . These homeownersinstalled simple wooden posts for holding drawing string lightson two corners of their concrete patio . The Wiley Post are perfect for holding up a set of outdoor patio luminousness , but they also act upon to display gorgeous plantation owner and out-of-door lantern for additional lighting . Once strung and get down , this space is quick to think about .

For retentive couple or big bulb , using a stainless sword wire can fend for the lights and keep sagging .

Functional Outdoor Lighting

Light up the nighttime with a canopy of enceinte bulb lights draw above a snug seating area . Multiple sets hung close together give you the most light for an outdoor space that does n’t leave you in the dark when the sun go down . Most string of patio lights simply plug in , so instalment is a " no lineman necessitate " undertaking . This set of terrace twine lights is lustrous enough to illuminate the entire pack of cards so you may keep the party going even after sunset .

DIY String Light Planters

If you do n’t have an obvious place to string your lights ( like a deck Wiley Post or tree diagram branch ) , you could make your own . TheseDIY string Christ Within plantersare well-heeled to assemble , and because they ’re filled with concrete , they ’re sturdy enough to exhibit anywhere . Plus , you could fulfill the top of each planter with dirt and plants or flowers for a piece of add verdure .

Lights for Outdoor Entertaining

Lights string by a consortium house , she shed , or outside dining area can smooth the passage from indoors to out , and offer a subtle directive , pointing to where the playfulness is happening . While entertaining alfresco , regard thread lights from the sign of the zodiac to the outside dining board to guide guests between the spaces .

outdoor sitting area with patterned tile