Woman Turns Dollar Tree Candle Holders Into Stylish Outdoor Solar Lamps

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Luxury outdoor lighting ideas on a Dollar Tree budget? Yes, it's possible! Liz Fenwick shows us how by creating DIY outdoor lamps using simple metal candle holders and solar lights from Dollar Tree. The crowning detail of these stunning lights is the small glass shades that create a flower-like look when paired with the slim candle holder. The result? A stunning solar light lamp that's beautiful on a patio table and requires no wiring.

The base of each lamp is a Black Iron Candle Holder from Dollar Tree. They're only $1.25 each and come in three different heights. Stick with one size, or grab different heights to add variety to your display. You can also upcycle similar candle holders that you already have or that you find at a thrift store. The base of the Dollar Tree version has some grooves to add subtle detailing. If you want to change the color of the stands to better complement your landscape lighting design and other outdoor decor, use spray paint formulated for metal surfaces.

To light up the lamp, grab a simple stake solar light — you can often find slim solar lights at Dollar Tree, or purchase a pack at a home improvement store. For the top, head to a thrift store and look for open-ended glass shades for light fixtures. Frosted glass shades hide the solar light portion, but you can also paint or frost a clear glass shade. The only other thing you really need is some E6000 Adhesive to attach all of the pieces together.

Assemble flower-style solar lanterns with upcycled items

To change the color of the solar lamp base, the original creator uses a metallic spray paint, but green works to play up the flower shape of the glass cup on top. Clean the shade with a microfiber cloth, glass cleaner, or soapy water to remove dirt and grime. Spray paint or frost the cups if desired. Glue the shade to the candle stick base with the wide end facing up. Remove the stake from the solar light, and glue it inside the cup with the solar panel facing up.

@lizfenwickdiy

NEW Dollar Tree Solar Light DIYs!💡 These were so easy to make, and I can't get over how pretty the results are. 😍 What do you think? #dollartreediy #easydiy #solarlights #outdoordecoration #outdoordecor #dollartree #dollartreefinds #dollartreelove #dollartreehacks #diydecor #dollartreeobsessed

♬ original sound – Liz Fenwick | DIYs & Decor

With so many Dollar Tree decor items you shouldn't overlook, there are several ways you can switch up the design of this lamp. One simple modification is to use a different candle holder as the base. You can also use a more decorative solar light that sticks up above the top of the glass. To add texture to the display, apply air-dry clay over the candlestick — use ropes of clay to create a vine-like effect or leaves, further enhancing the flower look. Or, wrap the candle holder in twine to give it a rustic aesthetic. 

Making multiple lamps and arranging them together on a table will create a striking centerpiece. Or, use a piece of wood as the base. Glue or screw the metal candle holders to that wooden base in your desired arrangement — a row of same-size candle holders on a long, narrow board, for example. Or a tall candle holder in the middle, two medium-sized holders next, and two short holders on the ends. You can also display your lighting fixtures on a cake pan repurposed as home decor.

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