DIY Outdoor Light Ideas

The right outdoor lighting can create the perfect ambience for your style and mood, but how exactly can you achieve it yourself? Here at Hometalk we have all the best, top, and newest outdoor lighting projects to spark your creativity. Watch a step by step video tutorial to learn how to do it yourself, without using a professional.

DIY Wine Barrel Market Light Posts (with ABS Pipe)

Get Creative with Lights

Make your own lights: Select glass jars of different shapes and sizes, paint them or keep them transparent, and add tealight candles inside them.
Use exotic tiki torches: Add light and style with tiki torches. Place one wherever you need extra light or arrange them together for an artistic design.
Decorate with fairy lights: String fairy lights through plants and trees and along pathways. Choose between single or multicolored lights for a magical feel.
Hang some lanterns: Place glass lanterns on the ground or hang from a height with supportive hooks to bring an exotic vibe to your garden.
Choose solar lights: Use solar-powered lights outdoors as they have no power costs. They come in different varieties, including lanterns and fairy lights.

More Outdoor Ideas

Top Projects for Outdoor Lights

Here we've collected the top outdoor lighting projects. Don't miss them.

DIY Wine Barrel Market Light Posts (with ABS Pipe)

Hello friends! While we may be quarantining it up right now, that doesn’t mean that Spring isn’t in the air. And that means summer is just around the corner. Here at the Fiddle Leaf House, we spend so many days and evenings out on our patio as the weather gets warmer, so adding some light and ambiance was key! If you can believe it, these wine barrel market light posts were our very FIRST DIY in this home when we moved in 3 years ago! I wasn’t blogging back then, so I didn’t take any photos. But when we replaced our original faux wine barrels for real ones this past summer, I took a few photos of the process for you! I hope you'll visit me on my blog for more fun projects!This is a GREAT quarantine project because you can order materials online and then try out your local hardware stores curbside pickup for the bigger things, like the whiskey barrels, dirt, and plants. Many local nurseries are also doing local delivery right now too. And of course, if you’re reading this after quarantine life is over, then all you have to do is make a quick run to your local hardware store to pick up everything you need!EDIT: Little did I know, this is ABS pipe not PVC pipe. Thanks for the correction. On that note, we have had no issues with it bending over time due to the heavy gauge wire in place. We have made small adjustments on one occasion. As a reader noted, you can seal PVC pipe to protect it from the sun - I would still spray with spray paint as I did here and then add a clear top coat as well.

Ana Ochoa - Sunrise Valley Farm Co.

DIY Hanging Solar Lights

These DIY solar lights are made from embroidery hoops and make a beautiful statement for your deck or patio.

Pamela - DIY vibes

String Light Posts and Planters

As part of our little patio makeover, I really wanted to add some lights for all the cozy ambiance.

Nikki | thebuckbungalow

How to String Outdoor Solar Lights With This Cheap Hack!

Create your own relaxing backyard fireside retreat by learning how to string outdoor solar lights with this cheap hack!For more DIY ideas and family fun be sure to visit Hammers N Hugs!If you are new to these parts, then first of all welcome I am so glad you’re here. But I also need to fill you in on two things that I really love…Fire.And solar energy.Random? Just keep reading.I am always looking for an excuse to burn something whether it be one of the 3,597 candles in our tiny little 1400 sq ft French Country cottage fixer upper or a campfire to roast sausages, saute veggies and sing Kum-Ba-Yah together.I also love solar energy.Solar energy just makes sense to me. So much so that we have installed a solar system on 2 of our 3 fixer uppers now.

Ahna Fulmer

Safe Front Porch Lighting: How to Make a Pool Noodle Solar Lamp Post

The coolest way to light up your front porch is with a pool noodle!In this DIY tutorial, I am going to show you how to create a charming and budget-friendly front porch lighting solution using a pool noodle, solar lights, broom handle, and a couple of wooden signs.This post was transcribed by a member of the Hometalk editorial team from the original HometalkTV episode.

Theartge

DIY Outdoor Solar Rope Lamp

We forever wanted some solar lamps on our back porch, but they can be very expensive. I am always looking for ways to re-purpose things that I already have at home. That was the case with this lamp. Didn't cost me a dime to create! :)

Maria L

How to Make a DIY Fairy Light Tree With String Lights

Many of us wish we could have outdoor lights glowing year-round; sadly, knotted electric cords and high energy bills hold us back. Thankfully, technology has advanced. Today, I’d like to share how I made a DIY fairy light tree with Starbright’s solar-powered string lights that could stay on year-round. Having solar-powered lights eliminates the need for long electric cords. This project was sponsored by Starbright.This 5-foot fairy light tree is the perfect size to stand on your covered patio/porch surrounded by greenery or flowers. Making your own fairy tree is only one example of how you could use solar-powered lights. There are many other creative ways to use them from Brightology.If you want to transform your outdoor living space, get Brightology Today! ! CODE: Vik20 will get you 20% off.For more info and pictures visit my website at DIY Fairy Light Tree. You could also see my other project here.

TheDIYPlan

How to Use Dollar Store Bowls to Make Mushroom Solar Lights

Looking for a fun and unique way to add style and ambiance to a walkway or patio area? These solar-powered painted concrete mushroom lights were very simple to create and offer a whimsical alternative to basic walkway lights. Store-bought solar powered walkway lights are susceptible to cracking and breaking but with a few inexpensive supplies, I created sturdy and unique lights that won’t break or succumb to the elements.Instead of spending a lot of money on lights that may not last, try these Dollar Store molds to make concrete solar-powered lights that stand the test of time.

ChrisGagnon

The Easiest Way to Make a Patio Lantern

If you like lanterns and you want to have the most romantic and cozy atmosphere on your patio or porch, don’t throw out your large glass jars. Yes, you read that right! All you need is large glass jars and knitting yarn. I’m sure you have those large pickles jars and I’m sure you have knitting yarn at home. If not my friends, hurry to your grandma's to get some.The project is so easy, you just have to hot glue the knitting yarn or any other thick thread in any color you desire to your clean glass jar. I did the first one and it took me longer because I was recording. But the second one I made in about 10 minutes total. The result is just amazing. I love how it adds ornamentation to my patio. I put candles or fairy lights inside to make my place magical.in this project, I literally upcycled everything from the top to the bottom to the handles. It cost me $0 (yes, zero dollars!) to make these stunning lanterns for my patio.They are so cute that I’ll put them inside by my fireplace after the summer.Ps: this lantern is very beautiful in black also.Watch the full tutorial in the video below.

Hinda

DIY Gravel Patio With Solar String Lights

This post is sponsored by Worx. All opinions are my own.Our backyard has been a project from day 1 of moving into this house. I'm happy to report that we are almost to the finish line. One of the last DIY’s we finished for this outdoor space was adding a gravel patio with solar string lights. Who would have thought that a little rock could make such a difference! I've always wanted pretty string lights and I can't wait to share my new lighted gravel patio plus an awesome robotic Worx lawn mower that automates our yard maintenance! Let's rewind and look at our backyard right after we moved in.

Lindsey

DIY Wine Barrel Market Light Posts (with ABS Pipe)

Ana Ochoa - Sunrise Valley Farm Co.

DIY Hanging Solar Lights

These DIY solar lights are made from embroidery hoops and make a beautiful statement for your deck or patio.

Pamela - DIY vibes

String Light Posts and Planters

As part of our little patio makeover, I really wanted to add some lights for all the cozy ambiance.

Nikki | thebuckbungalow

How to String Outdoor Solar Lights With This Cheap Hack!

Ahna Fulmer

Safe Front Porch Lighting: How to Make a Pool Noodle Solar Lamp Post

Theartge

DIY Outdoor Solar Rope Lamp

Maria L

How to Make a DIY Fairy Light Tree With String Lights

TheDIYPlan

How to Use Dollar Store Bowls to Make Mushroom Solar Lights

ChrisGagnon

The Easiest Way to Make a Patio Lantern

Hinda

DIY Gravel Patio With Solar String Lights

Lindsey

Slideshows to inspire you in your DIY outdoor lighting project. Take notes!

Outdoor Lights Videos

Watch our videos on outdoor lights and find inspiration for your next project.

Make an Amazing Garden Lamp With Your Chainsaw

This is one of the most beautiful and amazing garden lights that I have seen, and it is made out of nothing more than an old, dried out log and an inexpensive outdoor light. If you have chainsaw skills, then this project is for you so grab your chainsaw and put your skills to the test with this cool lamp build. Once you create one you won’t be able to stop, and you’ll be making them for everyone you know.

DIY step by step projects

Terra Cotta Pot Lighthouse With Solar Light

I had seen clay pot solar lighthouses on many DIY sites and I decided to give it a shot myself.

Diane S

Hanging Patio Lantern for 2 Dollars.

Inspired by big designers, i came up with this 2 dollars hunting lantern idea. I shopped most of the supplies from the Dollar Tree store. For the lantern body, I used the famous giant plastic cheese ball jar from Costco after enjoying the cheese balls all together, my kids and me. I love cheese ball and ended to have lots and lots of jars at home. you can find the extra big ones at Costco or Sam’s club. You can combine the extra large ones and the smaller ones from the regular grocery stores. Anyway, ones I had everything in between my hands I started imagining how my lanterns gonna look like and how I will hang them. I got a black synthetic rope from dollar tree store that I lined all over the jar horizontally and vertically with hot glue. For the handles I used an old rattan woven basket that i dismantled and covered with the black rope to solidify the handles. Note; the basket is the cheep one we find everywhere at Ross, home goods… Finally, I drilled the bottom of the jar and insert the solar light for a convenient lighting.Quick note: in my previous lantern project, some people were worry about the hot glue of it will melt outdoor under the sun. But for me, it didn’t. I leave in Pennsylvania and we do have some very hot days too.watch the tutorial video for more details.

Hinda

Simple Solar Chandelier Tutorial – Trash to Treasure

Do you have a dark corner in your yard? Maybe you would like to give this simple solar chandelier project a try.I don’t know about you, but I can’t get enough solar lights this spring. They are cheerful and whimsical, and I keep dreaming up new ways to add them to our yard.Here is my latest solar light project.

Cindy @ Upcycle Design Lab

Hometalkers' Favorite DIY Outdoor Lighting Projects

Here are the best projects to whip your outdoor lights into shape.

How to Make Tiki Mask Lights for Your Patio

I love having some fun decor in the patio and these tiki mask lights are the perfect addition. And if you know me, you know I LOVE making things out of PVC pipe! You can see even more of my PVC pipe art here.Let's get started.I always use 4" pvc pipe for all of my PVC pipe art. It's much easier than always having different sized pipes laying around and all of my patterns are made for a 4" pipe. 4" is a great size for these tiki mask lights too, giving you enough room to make a face and fit a light inside.

Jennifer | CrazyDiyMom

Use Dollar-Store Solar Lights to Create These Sun-Powered Creations

When it comes to illuminating your home and outdoor areas, solar-powered creations are a great option for those in search of eco-friendly alternatives to more traditional lighting. Drawing their energy from the sun, they’re not only easy to use and simple to set up, but they have some pretty impressive green credentials too.

Abbie M

DIY Glowing Orbs to Add Magical Sparkle to Your Garden This Year

Add enchanting sparkle to your garden this year with this easy DIY craft project! You can create these in no time at all! Make plenty of them to light up your planters or your garden this summer!

Chloe Crabtree

Stump Solar Lights

This project is so easy it should be illegal! I think this project is by far my favorite and was the most shocking transformation of two old stumps--it's amazing what a little bees wax will do to wood!

Rob & Courtney M, Hometalk Team

DIY String Light Planters Tutorial

FYI: The cost depends on how many planters you’d like. When we did this project, the planters were $20, posts were $15, bag of concrete $4 (about 2 planters worth), bag of rock $3/bag, planter hangers $8. The lights were $50 off Amazon and we used 2 for the entire patio. We had the scrap wood for the forms, the stain, and potting soil. Then you decide the type and therefore the cost of your flowers.

Alicia Rose | designofyourlife

Think a Tomato Cage Is Just for Growing Tomatoes? Look at These Hacks!

Even if you’ve never grown tomatoes, you know what these cages are:

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How to Make Tiki Mask Lights for Your Patio

Jennifer | CrazyDiyMom

Use Dollar-Store Solar Lights to Create These Sun-Powered Creations

Abbie M

DIY Glowing Orbs to Add Magical Sparkle to Your Garden This Year

Add enchanting sparkle to your garden this year with this easy DIY craft project! You can create these in no time at all! Make plenty of them to light up your planters or your garden this summer!

Chloe Crabtree

Stump Solar Lights

Rob & Courtney M, Hometalk Team

DIY String Light Planters Tutorial

Alicia Rose | designofyourlife

Think a Tomato Cage Is Just for Growing Tomatoes? Look at These Hacks!

Even if you’ve never grown tomatoes, you know what these cages are:

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New Outdoor Lighting Projects

The new outdoor lighting projects you don't want to miss. Check it out.

Concrete Garden Lights

This post was transcribed by a member of the Hometalk editorial team from the original HometalkTV episode.Make a beautiful lantern for your garden or porch with some concrete. You will love how pretty this is. You can see more of my crazy creations here

Chas' Crazy Creations

Hanging Outdoor Solar Light DIY

This post was transcribed by a member of the Hometalk editorial team from the original HometalkTV episode.My wife has a cozy little spot outside where she likes to sit and I think I can enhance the area. I headed down to my local Dollar Tree and the whole goal of this project is that everything has to come from there.

Mitch Couch

How to Make a Nautical Mason Jar Lamp in 6 Easy Steps

Add a bit of coastal style to your porch design with this DIY mason jar lamp made from affordable Dollar Store items. In no time at all, you’ll have one-of-a-kind outdoor light fixtures that bring a warm, inviting glow to your space.This post was transcribed by a member of the Hometalk editorial team from the original HometalkTV episode.

Meredith - Arts & Classy

Solar Light Mushrooms

This post was transcribed by a member of the Hometalk editorial team from the original HometalkTV episode.You will not believe how cute some vases and bowls from the Dollar Store can be with this fun summer project. You can see more of my crazy creations here

Chas' Crazy Creations

Rustic Chic on a Budget: How to Make a Dollar Tree Chandelier

Creating a beautiful and elegant chandelier for your porch doesn't have to be expensive. With a little creativity and some supplies from the Dollar Store, you can craft a rustic chic chandelier that adds charm to your outdoor space.This post was transcribed by a member of the Hometalk editorial team from the original HometalkTV episode.

Holly Grace

How to Light Up Your Yard With Stunning DIY Lanterns

Hey there, fellow crafters!Today, I am thrilled to share an exciting recycled tin can craft idea using empty tuna cans. We'll turn these humble containers into eye-catching outdoor lanterns that can be customized for each season. You can see more of my crazy creations hereThis post was transcribed by a member of the Hometalk editorial team from the original HometalkTV episode.

Chas' Crazy Creations