By Kristin Waites
Warm weather makes it more appealing to be outside after the sun goes down, and do-it-yourself lighting projects can add a distinctive flair to outdoor gatherings. Mr. Electric® has ways to power your tomorrow and help make your backyard the place to be on summer evenings with these great DIY backyard lighting ideas.
Outdoor Candle Lantern
This inventive project uses a small can, a thrift-shop vase and a wooden stick to create outdoor lighting that looks store-bought. It requires a few simple tools, but is very quick to put together. Real or battery-operated candles inside the vase will cast a dreamlike glow across your yard. Try making a few of these and lining a sidewalk or porch with them.
Wine Bottle Tiki Torches
Recycle old wine bottles by making a mosquito-repelling torch. All you need is a bottle, washer, wick, and citronella oil. You can add decorative stones or rocks to the bottom of the bottle to decrease the amount of oil you need. This can also help weigh the bottle down if you are worried about stability. Place the torches around the backyard where the flame won’t be blown out.
Tin Can Lantern
This project turns recycled cans into lanterns that can be painted and hung outside. Some of the steps require extra time, so plan ahead. Lanterns are a simple way to add color and light to your backyard or porch. Not only are they fun and easy to make, you can customize the paint colors and design to fit the atmosphere you want.
Glowing Orbs
This is a simple project that can add lots of character to your yard. All you need is an opaque glass light shade and a string of lights. The string lights can be coiled inside of the shade and when placed around the yard, add a muted glow. They are also simple but striking decorations during the daytime. A benefit to this project is that the orbs are easy to reposition throughout the yard. Invest in a few extension cords to make sure you can put the lights exactly where you want them.