Not Traditional String Lights: Brighten A Patio With The Help Of Old Terracotta Pots

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If you're a gardener with more terracotta pots than greenery, don't fret. There's no need to relegate them to the back of the shed or repot any of your thoughtfully crafted arrangements. Just take a cue from Instagram user kleinebaummanufaktur, who used an old terracotta pot to elevate boring string lights. Simply place the lights inside the pot, secure them with chicken wire, and hang the pot upside down to create a charming, rustic lantern for your patio.

While you certainly don't want to get rid of your main outdoor light source, this self-contained project emits a warm, comforting glow that makes al fresco evenings all the more inviting. Plus, it's easy and inexpensive to recreate and doesn't require an outlet, so you can place it anywhere you want. To get started, find small, empty pots in your garden — those measuring 3 to 6 inches will work best since they aren't too heavy. Other than that, you'll need heavy-duty rope like the ⁵⁄₁₆-inch Tenn Well Jute Rope, a small piece of chicken wire, and battery-operated LED string lights. Keep in mind you'll want to find a secure spot that can support the weight of the planter, such as a wall-mounted hook or a sturdy tree branch like in the original DIY.

It doesn't take much to get this patio DIY underway. Take your jute string, fold it in half, and tie a tight knot at the bottom before feeding both sides through the pot's drainage hole. This will act as the lantern's handle, so ensure it's sturdy and won't come untied. Then, take pliers and cut chicken wire to size to fit inside the pot. Once that's done, all you need to do is place the lights within the wiring's grids and hang your craft. Just make sure it isn't weighing down the branch or hook, as you won't want to repair broken terracotta pots.

If you want to add your own twist to this lantern, consider a coat or two of chalk paint to give the pot a colorful finish. You can also cover the old planter in fabric for a decorative pop. In this case, opt for heavyweight decorator or quilting fabrics, and seal the pot with Mod Podge Clay Pot Sealer Spray; it won't be waterproof, though, so do bring your lantern inside after use or keep it sheltered outdoors. Finally, place your little lantern alongside other decorative outdoor accessories like vibrant textiles, colorful plants, and furniture in natural materials for a cozy yet curated patio space.