Easy Tips on how to Hang String Lights

We often underestimate the power of lights. Maybe you don’t realize it, but if you place one lamp in your room correctly, it would be such a game-changer. Actually, you can almost place it at any place where you think needs a little spark. Patio, garden, balcony, you name it. One of the first things that we need to pay attention to is the type of lights. Now, if you look for that warm, soft-glow nuance, you would totally love string lights. A dim space to spend time with your loved ones, who doesn’t love that? However, even if installing lights sounds like an easy thing to do, we still need to be enlightened with a bit of background knowledge before we hang those lights. Check out these tips below to find out more!

1. Choose where to hang the lights

As I mentioned before, string lights can be installed anywhere around the house. However, people usually hang them outdoors to give an extra glow in certain places. String lights are really good at creating such an inviting radiance which makes them perfect to be hung on your patio or garden. Therefore, if you are hosting a party or a gathering, those lights will help you set up the ambiance so you will have a warm and nice conversation with your guests. Other than that, you also have to make sure that the place you’re picking has a power source and stands to support the lights. A tree, poles, or pillars would be great.

2. Measure the length

The next step after choosing where to hang the lights is to measure the length. This, of course, is to help you estimate the length of the lights you need. You can just simply roll out a measuring tape along the area that you would like to drape the lights. Make sure to include any crisscrosses for the layout.

3. Pick out the right lights

You see, there are various types of string lights. You might need to do a little research on this one but don’t worry, we got you covered! First, you need to decide which shell material do you prefer. They usually sell two types, glass, and plastic. Glass lights are highly recommended because they give you a more illuminating look compared to plastic lights. They might not seem very different before they are installed, but you will see a major difference once they are lit up. Other than that, you should pay attention to the shape of the lights as well. Round bulbs or bistro lights are the most common ones. They can fit with any circumstances and are very flexible.

4. Make sure the lights are always in stock

I know it is tempting to buy some random lights on sale during Christmas, but you might want to think about it again. If you did not check the availability of the brand after the Christmas sale, you might not find wire extension or perhaps more light bulbs of the same type. Therefore, I suggest you choose a leading brand. Although you need to spend more money, I promise you, it’s going to be worth it.

5. Coaxial staples always come in handy

You may be wondering about how you will manage to secure the wires if you need to attach them to a tree or any type of wooden material. Well, coaxial staples are here for the rescue. It has an open area that later will be used to clasp the wire. To use these, you need a hammer to nail the staples onto the surface. You can easily find coaxial staples at your favorite store. Make sure to get the same size as your light cord so it fits perfectly.

6. Settle on a layout plan

It is best for you to draw a sketch of how you want the lights to be hung. The sketch does not have to be complicated. As long as it shows the secure points, the lights, and the power source, it would be very helpful. Other than that, you also have to decide how you want to arrange the lights. It depends on the shape of the place you are choosing. You can crisscross the lights in a square or a rectangular area to make them look more aesthetically pleasing to the eyes. However, if you have an asymmetrically shaped space, it is best to hang the lights at one secure point and fan them out to several points. Coming up with a sketched layout is going to assist you to manage the time and also, you don’t need to worry about do-overs. Simple and very effective.

7. Take off the glass bulbs

I am sure you don’t want to waste those precious light bulbs just because you are not being careful enough. Well, you can avoid this nightmare by removing the glass bulbs before you start installing the lights. You can just simply place the bulbs in a cardboard box or the original box and store it somewhere safe for temporary. Once you are done hanging the lights, you can put the glass bulbs on.

8. Drape the strings

Another tip to vary the string lights arrangement is to loosen up the strings so that there is a little slack in the intersection. One thing you need to pay attention to is the height of the wires. You have to make sure that both end connectors are at the same height, otherwise, it would look tacky.

Conclusion

Hanging string lights is really a go-to if you want to make a major upgrade in your outdoor area. Now you already know some tips on how to do it. Hopefully, it will help you to enhance your creativity by thinking out of the box.

Here is another article that would help you to decorate the room.