5 Things to Do with… String Lights

String lights are always associated with the holidays, but what if you use ’em in April or September? Well, they look just as great, adding a bit of whimsy and fun wherever they’re strung. Now that every store on Main Street is offering string lights for at least 50% off, it’s the perfect time for snagging several boxes to keep around all year long.

1. FOLDED PAPER LANTERNS

You can buy paper lantern string lights at any discount store, but they look like… paper lantern string lights you bought at a discount store. ThisDIY versionmay take a little more time, but the results are amazing and would make for a great project to do when you’re, like me today, stuck inside due to a snowstorm.

2. HANGING LANTERNS

As temporary or permanent as you want it to be, this string lights solution from Etsy sellerTreasure Again使用mason jar和电线有限公司llars for a dreamy effect out of doors.

3. ILLUMINATED HEADBOARD

ThisDIY projectfromBetter Homes and Gardensputs bunched-up string lights into a square frame built from inexpensive lumber. If you’re looking for something with a little less weight, string lights behind a sheer curtainwork equally well.

4.气氛照明

This project from BobVila.com’s own Kristina combines string lights and a recycled wine bottle for some seriously subtlemood lighting.

5. LIGHT-UP LETTERS

Because of their length, you can arrange string lights in whatever shape you please. Theexampleabove would work well in a kitchen…

… or you could whip up your own custom marquee-styleletter light!

For more creative DIY project ideas, consider:

5 Things to Do with… Globes
5 Things to Do with… Mason Jars
5 Things to Do with… Vintage Ladders