These Are the Cutest and Most Creative Ways to Hang Your Backyard String Lights this Summer (2024)

FAQs

How do you hang cute string lights? ›

Hang multiple strings back and forth across the wall in straight lines, zigzags or lattice patterns. Use small fairy light strings to accentuate picture frames, art, bookcases or other existing decorative features. String them as a creative DIY desk decoration for subtle study lighting.

A combination of hooks and staples may be the most stable option. This is often true if your string lights are hanging overhead, such as on a covered patio or deck.

Attach the snap hooks on the guide wire to the screw hooks and hang the guide wire across the planned light layout. Tighten the ends using the cable clips to keep the guide wire at a taut length. For a layout in a wheel-spoke pattern, use an open hook in the center that can connect multiple snap hooks and hold tension.

Stainless steel screw hooks (or cup hooks, which are nearly the same) are his go-to for a litany of reasons. “They're easy to install; if you have enough hand strength, you don't even need to pre-drill the holes,” he explained. “They really cradle the wire and hold it off the house a little.

Always be sure to use lights, extension cords, and other lighting equipment that is graded for outdoor use. When you're ready to hang string lights, drill screw eyes into a post, tree, or wall. Then, use small metal carabiners to attach the string of lights to the screw eyes.

Aside from hanging string lights on trees, perhaps the easiest method is to hang along a fence. Select the portion of the fence you wish to hang the lights from. Then lay out the lights on the ground below the fence to get a better idea of how they will hang.

String the lights three-fourths of the way around the tree, then double-back, creating a U-shape with your strand and continuing back the way you came. Repeat the same process towards the left side of your tree, forming the U-shape and doubling back towards the front when you get to the backside of the tree again.

To attach the string lights to the covered patio, simply screw hooks into the ceiling (we do ours on the outside of the trim around the ceiling area) all around the patio. We did ours every few lights, you can do more or less depending on how much swag you want in your string lights.

If you're attaching the string lights to vinyl siding, opt for vinyl siding clips, which are directly wedged into the seam of the siding. Another option is to attach the lights to gutters by securing them to S-clips. For a more permanent setup, drill holes directly into the siding, brick, or other exterior material.

How high should I hang outdoor string lights? ›

For most string lights, about eight to 10 feet is perfect. If you have larger bulbs, you may want to hang the lights a little higher.

Our commercial grade string lights do have mounting holes (either above or on each side of the socket), however for long-term reliability and easier installation, we suggest using zip ties. Optionally, an extra zip tie between sockets can help add security and maintain a "clean" look to the installation.