String lights create a fairy tale ambiance in any space.
Dedicating a space to string lights in your backyard would make it your go-to place to sit in peace. Though hung on trees, these string lights give a very homey feeling.
But if you don’t have trees back there and want string lights somehow, this write-up is for you.
Here we are presenting practical ideas on how to string lights without trees.
It would be more fun than a project, so let’s dig a bit deeper and see what surprises we have until the end!
How to String Lights without Trees?
First, we’ll list the tools you would require, and next would be the step-by-step guide to hanging string lights without trees.
Tools Required
- 4 saplings/dowel rods
- Raw wood to create the base of saplings
- Wood screws
- Screw hooks
- 4 medium-sized planters
- Random stones or brick pieces to fill the planters
Step-By-Step Guide to Hang String Lights with DIY Poles
Step 1: Prepare the Poles
We usually have spare saplings piled up in the garage; if not, you can quickly get them with little effort.
Once you get hold of saplings, look for raw wood pieces to make a base for them to stand.
Place one piece of wood under every pole and screw it. This base will help poles stand straight.
Step 2: Place the Poles in the Planters
Now make a pole stand in the planter and fill the planter with stones or brick pieces.
You can place the dry flowers on top to make them look aesthetically pleasing or color the rocks.
Now place the planters in the area you have chosen to lighten up with string lights. Make a square or a rectangle.
Step 3: Fix the Screw Hooks
Screw hooks will get used to hang the lights and cross them across the poles.
Fix a hook on the top of each pole.
Step 4: Place the String Lights
Now start hanging the lights, and using the screw hooks, you can easily fit them in four corners.
Depending on the length of your string light, you can overlap the lights and make a roof of lights.
6 Creative Ideas about Hanging String Lights without Trees
Below are more ideas to hang string lights without trees.
1. Hang String Lights along Fence
If you’ve got a fence in your backyard, you can easily place your string lights across the fence. Here is a step-by-step guide;
Step 1: Place your fairy lights along the fence where you want to hang them. Use a pencil or tape to mark the fence where you need the stanchions.
Step 2: Now select the wooden support you would require to support the lights. It is best to get the wood that has the same sizes and color to make them look aesthetically pleasing.
Step 3: Now attach the metal cup hooks to the wooden support to easily hang the string lights on them.
Step 4: Next, use a hammer and nail all the support posts into the fence of your backyard as per markings.
Step 5: You are all set to hang your string lights along the fence.
2. Hang String Lights on Decks
To hang the string lights on the deck, you have to attach poles to the deck.
For this purpose, it is important to determine how many poles you would require to cover the deck area for this purpose.
Also, you can color the poles to match the color with the deck.
Below is the guide that will assist you best.
Step 1: It is best to place a pole on each farthest corner so you would be able to determine how many poles you would require to fill the middle space. Use a hammer to nail the posts on the backside of the deck.
Step 2: Next, place the metal cup hooks on top of the poles.
Step 3: Start hanging the string lights from one hook to another.
Step 4: Make sure there’s a power socket nearby or arrange the extension.
3. Hang String Lights on Patios/Gazebos
Peaceful outdoor sitting space is no less than a luxury.
You would love to visit a patio on your weekends to enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
But what would be better than enjoying your dinner at your super inviting Gazebo lighten up by fancy string lights?
Here is how you can decorate your patio/gazebo with string lights:
Step 1: First and foremost, measure the area to determine how many lights would be sufficient to decorate the Gazebo. The number of lights would depend on the pattern you want to create using string lights.
Step 2: Now get the screw hooks and fix them on the ceiling.
Step 3: Start hanging the lights with screw hooks and make the pattern you like.
4. Hang String Lights on Patio Umbrellas
Patio umbrellas are the best source to get that ambient glow indoors.
Here is how you can hang the string lights on Patio umbrellas;
Step 1: Lower the pole and detach the umbrella. Put it downside up on a soft surface carefully.
Step 2: Use the umbrella ribs to hang the string lights. Leave the gap of at least 2 inches from the center.
Step 3: Use tiny nail clippers, zip ties, or bands to fix the lights.
Step 4: You can make the string light rope move across the ribs of an umbrella.
5. Hang String Lights in Backyard
You can hang the string lights in the backyard anywhere, including walls, trees, fences, deck, patio, sheds, or railing.
The material that you would need includes:
- Hook screws
- Cap hook
- Cord
- Finish Nails
- String light
- Support cables.
Further, you can use portable string light poles and move them wherever you want.
Posts and poles can be used to make any space suitable for placing string lights.
Just make sure you have a power socket nearby or arrange extensions.
Tips to Hang String Lights in Backyard
- Always choose the brand of lights that is readily available in the market.
- Before hanging the string lights, make sure bulbs get taken off. They might break while banging during the placement procedure.
- Consider using coaxial staples if you plan to fix string lights in deck railings, trees, or woods.
- Plan everything, including the layout, so you don’t have to do additional work like installing sockets. Also, whether you will be crossing the lights or not.
- Always secure the connectors using tape.
- Use a pencil or marker to make marks and then place the hooks. Make sure everything gets planned on paper before blindly making holes.
- Test the light before placing them in your desired location.
6. Hang String Lights in Bushes
The lights should be close enough to the bushes to fit comfortably on the branches.
However, be careful not to push it back to become entangled or invisible.
Consider doubling the number of lights used for bushes thicker than evergreen shrubs that can retain dense foliage throughout the winter.
Decorating both sides with two separate strands guarantees a brighter and more complete range of light.
Conclusion
String lights have nothing to do with holidays or Christmas. You can hang them anywhere in your house to give a cozy look.
Moreover, you can play around with them as much as you like and create the pattern you adore. Happy lightning!
