Creative Ideas for String Lighting

Now that spring is upon us, most of us want to spend time outdoors. Wouldn’t it be neat to walk out on your deck or patio and see the stars even on a cloudy night? String lighting is a simple lighting technique that can add whimsy to your outdoor gatherings or to just enjoy solo. String lighting can transform your backyard into a welcoming place at night. Whether lights are strung in trees, from poles, over an arbor or on your deck, string lighting can turn an ordinary living space into a magical scene. String lights are available in various shapes, sizes and configurations.

What do you think of when you hear the word string lighting?

Most people think of holiday lights on buildings or perhaps small lights strung on Christmas trees come to mind. The Christmas lights that are designed for exterior use are not suitable for long-term outdoor wear. The bulbs on these are not very long-lasting and the transformers supplied are often not recommended for exterior installation. This is because they assume that the transformer will be inside with the lighting cable leading out through a window or opening. Some transformers are available for exterior use in which case you can then use the Christmas lights for a more permanent outdoor wear.

Rope Lighting

Another option you can do for string lighting is a rope light. This is made by threading a lighting string through a clear, bendable polythene hose. Many people use these for outdoor parties and other festive occasions. Still wondering what the difference between Christmas lighting and rope leading is?  Christmas lighting is usually a zigzag result of lighting while rope lighting is more of the spiral effect you might get around a palm tree.

Commercial String Lighting

For people with a larger budget, a more permanent display might be more appropriate. Commercial string lighting uses Xenon lamps which can last up to 20,000 hours. With this type of lighting you can keep the lights up for several years and turn them on and off at your own will.

A common technique for string lighting is to create an outline effect on a tree to make it appear denser. Also, tracing out the outline of the branches of the tree with lights can help the tree to look larger and create a focal point in the landscape.  An up lighting effect can be achieved by placing rope lighting on the back of landscape edging.   If you want to do it yourself and be budget friendly, you can use strands of lights to make a garden –theme tabletop centerpiece. Simply, roll up a strand of lights and cap with a glass cloche. This could be a fun and creative alternative to candles which can be blown out by the wind.