Ditch Extension Cords And Try This Cuter Way To Light Up Wreaths With An Easy DIY

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A wreath can look lovely during the day, then practically disappear once the sun goes down if you don't have any way to illuminate it. If you're ready to trade in your basic wreaths for something with a little evening sparkle, adding string lights is an easy upgrade — until you have to figure out where to plug them in, that is. The nearest outlet is never quite where you need it, and let's be honest, an extension cord trailing down the wall is ugly. While battery-powered options exist, the shine tends continually dim compared to plug-in lights as the batteries lose power.

One way around that is to frame an existing light fixture with your wreath and power its string lights through a compatible bulb-socket outlet adapter. The Onite 2-Pack Light Socket Outlet Adapter is about $10 on Amazon and adds a plug connection while leaving a socket available for the fixture's bulb. With this setup, the wreath lights and the original bulb can turn on together using the same wall switch, solving the cord issue. Tucking the string-light wire among the foliage is one genius way to hide and organize cords, and way better than running an extension cord across the entrance, potentially creating a tripping hazard (and an eyesore) in the process.

For this DIY, you'll need a wreath, a short strand of LED string lights, and a bulb-and-outlet adapter compatible with your fixture. Ribbons or other accents can help coordinate the display with the season. Autumn leaves, spring flowers, Christmas ornaments, or everyday greenery — they all work to spruce up your front porch. Try finding materials that are waterproof or weather resistant, like Ashland's Water Resistant Rosebush from Michael's for $15 a piece.

First, double-check that the adapter, light strand, and fixture are all compatible and work in the intended location. Some socket adapters are rated only for dry indoor use, so don't assume a covered porch makes them suitable outdoors. Rain and weather can still make its way onto your front stoop, so cover your bases.

Test your string lights first before doing all the work to install them, then unplug before decorating. Lay the wreath on a table and make sure the light strand's plug is next to the spot where it will connect to the adapter. Weave the lights through the foliage and tuck the wire behind leaves or branches, securing it loosely with ties so it doesn't fall off. Make sure you leave a little length to fill any noticeably bare patches. With power switched off and the bulb cool, install the bulb-and-outlet adapter according to its instructions, then replace the bulb.

Keep all foliage and ribbons clear of the bulb, and plug the strand into the adapter only once the arrangement is secure. Turn the power back on and watch your creation light up — both sets of lights should now respond to the same switch. For a display that won't look awkward if you "forget" to take them down, choose simple greenery wreaths and swap their ribbons or ornaments for each holiday instead of replacing the whole arrangement.