During summer, when many folks spend quality time with family and friends on decks and in backyards, it’s a great time to think about spicing up your outdoor decor. With a few smart design and layout tricks and features, you can create an outdoor space with indoor-level comfort. One of these design features is the tasteful use of outdoor string lights to transform your deck or yard into a space exuding modern elegance.

Does setting up string lights in your outdoor space sound complicated? It doesn’t have to be. Here we review and explain a popular TikTok post showing how to elegantly light up your deck or yard using a DIY outdoor string light pole stand, all without investing much time or trouble. The best part? It’s renter-friendly!

@from_the_heart_decor How to make a decorative string light poles! Budget friendly 😀 #string #lightpole #backyard #diy #diyproject #backyardvibes #homedecor #backyardtransformation #diyhomedecor #diyprojectsideas #ideas #decoraciondepatio #decoracion #patio #outdoors ♬ original sound – Dianne Hernandez

Tools for installing string light stands

  • A set of DIY string light poles or 10-foot lengths of 1 1/2-inch PVC pipe
  • Screw hooks (if not using factory-made string light poles)
  • Enough shatter-proof LED bulb string lights to light the area you’re decorating
  • One large, heavy-duty plastic planter for each pole you’re setting up
  • Quick-set cement and water
  • Portable concrete mixer (optional)
  • Trowel/small shovel (if not using a portable mixer)
  • 6-inch magnetic level
  • 8-foot long strips of 2×2-inch wood (optional)
  • Quick grip clamps (optional)
  • Painter’s ladder
  • River rock or pebbles

Step-by-Step Guide to Building String Light Poles

  • Step 1: Decide where you’d like to set up your string lights (i.e. across your deck, yard or patio)
  • Step 2: Place a heavy-duty plastic planter and string light pole in each spot where you intend the pole to be set up. Alternatively, you can use 10-foot lengths of 1 1/2-inch PVC pipe or 10-foot 4×4 wooden posts as long as they’re pressure-treated to prevent rot. Keep in mind that metal poles may be a lightning risk.
  • Step 3: Mix some quick-set cement in the first planter. Make enough to fill the planter three-quarters full.
  • Step 4: Stick the light pole (or PVC or wooden post) into the cement until the bottom end contacts the bottom of your planter.
    • Tip: Dedicated string light poles often have spikes on the ends to stick into the ground. Use these as intended if you like, or consider them extra anchoring material as you set them into the cement.
  • Step 5: Use a 6-inch magnetic level to ensure the pole or post is perfectly plumb as the cement begins to set. You can use some temporary 2×2 wooden braces clamped diagonally to your pole or post and pressed into the ground to keep the arrangement plumb without having to hold it.
  • Step 6: Repeat the process with more poles/posts and planters until you have enough set up across your yard or deck to support all the string lights you want.
  • Step 7: Follow the instructions on the quick-dry cement packaging concerning wait time for things to fully harden.
  • Step 8: Use a painter’s ladder to string the lights along the top of the poles or posts. These factory-designed poles have metal loops on top meant for holding string lights. If you’re using PVC or wood, secure the lights with screw hooks.
  • Step 9: Cover the exposed cement on the tops of your planters with decorative river rock.

Creative Decorating Tips for String Light Poles

When decorating your backyard lighting poles, creativity is key to enhancing the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space. These simple and stylish outdoor lighting ideas will enhance deck or yard as a whole.

Wrap poles with vine or string for added charm

A charming addition to your string light poles is a touch of nature by wrapping them in vines or twine. You might even consider planting some ivy or jasmine or possibly some other kind of climbing plant that will wrap around the poles as they grow, resulting in a natural and rustic garden-type look. For a less labor-intensive solution, use thick twine or string that can be wrapped around the poles to add some texture and dimension.

Paint or stain poles to match your outdoor aesthetic

You can add some personality to the look of your lighting poles using paint or stain. Opt for a color or finish that matches your outdoor decor, be it a neutral stain for a rustic feel or a bright color that matches your outdoor furniture or theme. This custom outdoor string light pole stand could be just the thing to dress up your garden or patio—and even bring it one big step closer to your outdoor DIY ideas reality without spending much money at all.

Add planters or hanging baskets to the base

Transform the base of your light poles with planters or hanging baskets to create a more captivating look. Plant seasonal blooms or hardy greenery in the planters to provide a vibrant contrast to the poles and string lights. Adding a hanging basket filled with trailing plants like ferns or petunias introduces another layer of texture and life, transforming the poles into striking garden features that serve as functional lighting supports.

FAQ’s

What is the best material for outdoor string light poles?

Pressure-treated wood, galvanized steel and PVC are the best materials for outdoor string light poles. They’re all durable, weather-resistant, and strong enough to support string lights in various outdoor conditions.

How do I keep outdoor light poles from falling over?

To prevent outdoor light poles from falling over, place them in heavy planters filled with quick-set cement, which provides a sturdy base. This will help prevent tipping, even in windy conditions or with heavier light strands.

Can I make string light poles without permanent fixtures?

Yes! Cement-filled planters or weighted umbrella stands make great temporary bases. They’re ideal for renters or seasonal setups and can be moved or stored easily.

What is the ideal height for string light poles?

Poles should be 8 to 10 feet tall. This height allows enough head clearance while providing broad, even light coverage over patios or yards.

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Author
Robert Maxwell
Robert Maxwell is a seasoned carpenter, builder, cabinetmaker, homesteader, stone mason and mechanic. He's been sharing his knowledge through digital and print articles since 2010. Robert lives in a self-built cabin in the woods in Northern Ontario, Canada with his wife and daughter.
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Robert Maxwell