Do you have a bunch of extra string lights lying around from the holidays? Maybe they’ve been relegated to the back of a closet or shoved in a drawer.
If so, don’t worry; you’re not alone. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing what to do with excess string lights and sharing some ways to reuse those pesky string lights.
From decorating your home for the holidays to using them outdoors, check out these fun ways to use string lights.
We’ll also give you some tips on decorating with string lights, so even if you don’t have any extras, you can still put them to good use. So read on to find out how to put those extra string lights to good use!
Summary: Excess string lights can be creatively repurposed to enhance the ambiance of your living spaces, both indoors and outdoors. Instead of discarding or storing them away, consider transforming them into decorative elements or functional lighting solutions. Some ideas include wrapping the lights around indoor plants or furniture, draping them along walls or bookshelves, or creating a cozy atmosphere in a bedroom by hanging them above the bed or around a headboard.
For outdoor use, you can embellish a patio, balcony, or garden by weaving the lights through a trellis, wrapping them around a tree or shrubs, or outlining a deck or gazebo. Alternatively, you can fashion a DIY light fixture by placing the excess string lights inside a glass jar, lantern, or decorative container for a unique and customizable lighting accent. By repurposing excess string lights, you can add a touch of warmth and charm to your home while making the most of your resources.
Why Should You Use Those Extra String Lights?
String lights are a versatile decoration that can be used in various ways. They’re perfect for adding a touch of light and warmth to any indoor and outdoor space.
And, since they come in all sorts of colors and styles, you can really get creative with how you use them. String lights are great for decorating your home and can also be used for special occasions and parties.
Whether you’re throwing a birthday party, a Halloween bash, or just a get-together with friends, string lights can help add to the atmosphere.
They’re also a great way to add some extra light to an outdoor event. String lights are a great option if you’re looking for a way to add extra light to your home without spending much money.
And, if you have some extras lying around, there are plenty of ways to put them to good use. So read on for some ideas on how to use those pesky string lights!
What to Do With Excess String Lights: Five Great Ideas
1. Use Them With a Clothesline
One great way to use excess string lights is by hanging them on a clothesline. This is a great way to add extra light to your laundry room or backyard.
Simply hang the string lights on the clothesline and plug them in. You can also drape them over a fence or any other structure that you have in your backyard.
2. Make a Fairy Garden
Another great way to use string lights is by making a fairy garden. This is a great project for kids and adults alike.
Gather some stones, plants, and other small items to create your own miniature garden. Then, hang the string lights around the garden and enjoy the magical glow.
3. Make a Fairy Bottle
If you don’t have space for a fairy garden or want to make something that’s a bit more portable, you can always make a fairy bottle. This is a great way to use up those extra string lights.
Simply find a small bottle or jar, and fill it with water. Then add some string lights and other small items, such as glitter or beads. Close the lid tightly and enjoy your very own fairy bottle.
4. Wrap Them Around a Tree
Another great way to use string lights is by wrapping them around a tree. This is a great way to add some extra light to your yard or garden.
Wrap the string lights around the tree’s trunk and plug them in. You can also drape them over branches or any other structure that you have in your yard.
5. Make a DIY Lantern
If you want to add some extra light to your home, you can always make a DIY lantern. This is a great way to use up those extra string lights.
Simply find a small jar or container, and place a candle inside. Then, wrap the string lights around the outside of the jar. Close the lid tightly and enjoy your very own lantern.
Can You Cut Off Extra String Lights?
If you have extra string lights, the first question you might be wondering is whether or not you can cut them off. The answer is yes, in most cases, you can cut off the excess string lights.
However, it is important to note that cutting the string lights will void any warranty associated with them.
If you are unsure about cutting the string lights, or if you do not feel comfortable doing so, you can always take them to a local lighting store and have them cut the lights for you.
Make sure to bring along the receipt or proof of purchase so that the store knows you are the rightful owner of the lights.
Instructions: How To Cut off Excess String Lights
Step 1: Determine the Wiring Circuit.
The very first thing you need to do is to determine the wiring circuit. In order to do this, you need to remove one of the bulbs from string lights and check if they are still working.
If the string lights are not working, this means that they are on a series circuit wiring. Or, if the string lights are still working, this indicates that they are on a parallel circuit wiring.
Step 2: Find the Place to Cut.
If you have determined that the string lights are on a series circuit wiring, you next need to find where you can cut the lights. To do this, you need to find the male plug of the string lights.
Once you have found it, you can cut the string lights anywhere between the male plug and the first bulb. If you have determined that the string lights are on a parallel circuit wiring, you can cut the string lights anywhere along the length of the wire.
Step 3: Cut the String Lights.
Once you have determined the correct place to cut the string lights, you can proceed with cutting them. Make sure to use a sharp pair of scissors or wire cutter to make a clean cut.
When cutting the string lights, be very careful not to damage the wire. Also, make sure the string lights are unplugged before cutting them.
Step 4: Reconnect the Other Wire with Wire Connector.
After you have cut the string lights, you need to reconnect the wiring circuit. If you have cut the string lights on a series circuit, you need to connect the two severed wires using a wire connector.
If you have cut the string lights on a parallel circuit, you must connect each severed wire to the male plug.
Step 5: Test the String Lights.
Once you have reconnected the wiring circuit, you need to test the string lights to see if they are still working. Plug them in and turn them on.
If they are not working, you may need to check the connection to ensure everything is secure. Also, check if there are any damaged wires. If so, you will need to replace them before the string lights work again.
Step 6: Waterproof Them for Outdoor Use.
If you plan to use the string lights outdoors, you must waterproof them first. Apply a layer of clear nail polish or heat shrink tubing over the exposed wires.
This will protect the string lights from moisture and prevent them from shorting out. You can also use self-sealing silicone to waterproof the string lights. Apply a small amount to the exposed wires and allow them to dry.
Additional Tips and Advice
1. If you are not comfortable cutting the string lights yourself, you can always take them to a local lighting store and have them cut the lights for you.
2. Make sure to unplug the string lights before cutting them.
3. If you plan to use the string lights outdoors, waterproof them first. This can be done using waterproofing electrical tape or dipping the string lights in a waterproofing solution.
4. Once the string lights are cut, you can then use them to decorate for any number of occasions such as weddings, parties, and holidays.
5. If you have any excess string lights you do not plan on using, you can always donate them to a local school or community center.
Summing Up
Whether you’re looking for storage solutions or new ways to use your old string lights, we hope these tips have inspired you.
String lights can be used for more than just Christmas decor, and they can add personality and character to any room in your home. Now that you know what to do with excess string lights, you can put them to good use.
Whether you use them to decorate your home for the holidays or add a bit of light to your garden, they are sure to add a touch of sparkle and charm. So go ahead and get creative with your excess string lights today!