backyard party lights
If you've visited a mass retail store any time during the warmer months, you may have noticed a minimal and standardized selection of patio light options, usually with lengths only up to 25 feet -- which is not long enough for most outdoor applications. And, very few bulb size, shape and color options. This "one-style fits all" lighting selection is fine for some but it doesn't really address that we all have different outdoor space configurations. Different lighting style preferences. Different budgets. Different needs.
Patio string light lengths, light colors, bulb shapes, bulb sizes and bulb finishes all make a difference. To help you create the outdoor scene of your dreams, complete with lighting that fits your individual style, we've come up with our most helpful tips and tricks for selecting patio bulbs and light strings as well as mistakes to avoid before you buy.
Measuring Tips - Part of what makes patio lights unique is the natural swag or arc that is created when you hang them. While beautiful, this natural curve is often the cause of strings that don't quite reach despite exact measurements being taken. To make sure you have enough length to cover your entire space, swag included, you'll want to measure the area in which you plan to hang your lights and then buy light strings that are 2 to 6 feet longer than your linear measurement. If you end up with a little more string length than you need you can always shorten it by doubling it up on the ends.
String Light Ideas For Your Backyard
Hanging Patio Light Patterns - Some popular light hanging patterns include the zig zag, the X, the scallop and the square. Different spaces may lend themselves to different patterns so consider the look you'd like to achieve. First, determine if you want your patio lights to hang taut or if you'd rather they create a sweeping effect across your space. Next, choose a pattern and measure the total linear feet you need accordingly. Then add a few feet to the measurement to account for a swag, if you want one.
String Lights on Stakes - Use shepherds hooks to hang lights along a path, or create perfect spacing with walkway light stakes. When planning the length of lights to use, you'll want to estimate for the natural dip that will occur between stakes.
Patio light bulbs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to complement any space or decorative style. The image above illustrates the type of bulbs available as well as the bulb base size. Bulb base size is important to know in order to match the bulbs you choose with the appropriate string socket size. For example, bulbs with E12 candelabra bases will need to be paired with a light string that has E12 sockets.
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Globe light bulbs are the most common choice in outdoor string lights and iconic for their round shape. Globe lights range from small G30 (30mm) bulbs, perfect for cozy spaces to larger, G50 (50mm) bulbs which are ideal for larger areas where greater size and coverage is needed.
Edison light bulb shapes come in many varieties but the S11 and S14 feature more elongated bulbs, which are very popular because of their unique look. A15 and A19 bulbs are also a popular choice because they are the universal light bulb look.
C Bulbs are typically associated with Christmas lights and are routinely seen right side up. However, you can just as easily turn them upside down and achieve the same patio string light look. Because the shape of C7 and C9 bulbs is more elongated like a candle tip, it creates a more slender and long light halo.
Lumineo Micro Led Connectable Steady Outdoor Party Lights
LED patio bulbs are available with glass and acrylic lenses and a variety of finishes. LED patio lights are long lasting and incredibly vivid. Additionally, if your project requires a long run of bulbs, going LED means less time configuring power supply needs, calculating max wattage and worrying about blowing fuses.
The choice to go with glass or acrylic patio bulbs often comes down to durability, budget and display. Glass bulbs are generally less expensive than their acrylic counterparts which can be very important when factoring budget into your outdoor lighting equation. Although initially more expensive, acrylic bulbs are shatterproof and the colors are infused into the material instead of being painted on, so they won't fade, chip or crack. Additionally, because acrylic bulbs are also LED, they stay cool to the touch, providing convenience and peace of mind. While budget and durability weigh heavily in the decision to go glass or acrylic, the choice is also often one of personal preference regarding display. Glass bulbs are iconic in the patio lighting world, so it is understandable why many people are drawn to their classic beauty, whereas others love the vivid colors and modern designs found in acrylic LED bulbs.
Clear bulbs allow the light to shine its brightest while also showing off the filament or interior bulb design. This is classic finish, perfect for any space and especially popular in larger outdoor applications.
Cheap Outdoor Party Lighting Ideas You Need To Know
Faceted bulbs cast a stunning light pattern when hung near or against solid surfaces, adding an interesting design element to your light display.
Satin and Pearl bulbs diffuse the light to create a soft, inviting glow, and they look like decorative accents during the day, adding to their appeal.
SPT2 Wire For Longer Runs - You might notice the distinctions of SPT1 and SPT2 made between string light wires. This notation indicates wire insulation which is an important consideration, especially when planning longer term lighting installations. SPT1 wire is the standard for moderate to normal light usage, while thicker SPT2 wire insulation supports higher wattage bulbs and provides better protection against the elements, particularly in regions with extreme weather patterns and temperatures.Turn your dark, unused outdoor spaces into a nighttime oasis with the help of patio lights! Hanging patio lights across the backyard, deck or inside of an outdoor structure like a gazebo or pergola is a perfect way to add ambient landscape lighting for every day use, parties and outdoor events. Scroll down a little to start at the beginning or click on one of the links below this text to skip straight to the patio lights topic you're looking for!
How To Hang Outdoor String Lights: The Ultimate Guide
With a little planning, patio string lights have the unique ability to make any outdoor space more exciting. We made this guide for anyone looking to get started.
The installation process can vary depending on where and how you decide to hang your patio lights. To get you started, we've created a list of the basic steps, supplies you might need and methods to use.
If your yard doesn't have many readily available options for hanging patio lights, you may need to create your own. You can affix poles to deck railings or use the railings themselves to hang your lights. For larger backyard installations you may need to attach wires to trees and sink poles into the ground. In smaller patio settings with no existing surfaces to hang lights, you can cement poles into painted buckets or decorative planters using the DIY method below.
Best 26 Breathtaking Yard And Patio String Light Ideas
Attach a hook to one end of your pole, this will provide an anchor for the light strings to attach to. Mix the cement into your smaller clay pot and while it is still wet place your pole or wooden post in the cement. Hold the pole still or find something to keep it centered while it dries. Drying shouldn't take too long if you're using quick dry cement. Once dry, place the smaller pot inside the larger pot and fill to the top with soil. Plant flowers or place stones around the base of the pole on top of the soil. Now you have a functional pole for hanging your patio lights that also serves as a decorative planter!
Note: this DIY pole for patio lights is recommended only for coverage over small areas such as a 12x12 patio. For larger spaces, more permanent and sturdy hanging solutions should be used.
The first step to a flawless patio light design is making sure you know the dimensions of your space. We recommend drawing a rough sketch of the area where you plan to hang your lights and writing the measurements on your drawing for quick reference later. This sketch will come in handy when you pick your hanging pattern, which we will discuss further in the next section. Part of what makes patio string lights so appealing is the natural curve created by the strings. To make sure you have enough length to account for the swag in your light strings, add 2 - 6 feet of length to your measurements and purchase strings that coincide with those final numbers.
Enchanting Patio String Lights Ideas To Adorn Your Backyard
Take inspiration from the pros when designing your backyard patio lights. Event spaces, restaurant patios and public squares are all areas where patio lights are likely to be found in a variety of patterns and designs. Take a look at our list of the most popular patio light patterns and pick the one that best
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