Gardener Transforms Old Glass Lampshades Into The Prettiest Outdoor Lights

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There are all kinds of outdoor lighting ideas to make your yard dreamy at night. But wouldn't it be nice if they were just as gorgeous during the day? It's definitely possible with a project shared by gardener and DIY enthusiast April Calder. Many of us use solar lights to brighten our yards. But now imagine them dressed up with miniature glass lampshades and strands of crystals that dangle down. Along with being whimsical, luckily, they aren't difficult to make either!

Among outdoor lighting ideas, this one is a winner because it's so easy to make, and it used upcycled glass shades. The first thing on the list to make these DIY garden ornaments are basic solar stake lights. If you don't have any extra in the garage, these GIGALUMI Solar Pathway Lights (or similar ones) would be sufficient for the job. Next, you'll need one small glass lampshade per light. Picture the type that are used on ceiling fans or secured above bathroom mirrors. They're so common that you might be able to find a set of old ones while thrifting. Perhaps you'll even come across shades decorated with a pretty design. Lastly, the project requires a drill, wire, and heavy-duty glue. Faux crystal chains, such as this KANPURA Teardrop Crystal Garland, are optional, but add a sparkly touch.

You're only going to need the solar light heads, so you can remove the stakes if they are attached. Next, drill a hole into opposite sides of each light's bottom piece (the connector). This is where you'll hang the crystal strands. One by one, slide the chain's hook through the holes so that the crystals dangle underneath the light. 

Now it's time to glue the solar light to the glass shade. Squeeze a strong adhesive onto the upper rim of the lampshades. Thread the light through the top opening of the lampshade so that the chain dangles down and press the solar light onto the glue on the rim of the glass shade. The solar panels should now sit on the shades like caps, with the crystal strand hanging down. 

@april_calder

Special Thanks to Sherry for sharing with me! I love upcycling! And these are beautiful! #solarlights #upcycle #upcycling #lampshade #gardenlights #yarddecor #treedecorating

♬ A Day in My Life – Raya

Now, you need to create hangers for the lights out of wire. Cut two pieces of wire for each light, one that's big enough to wrap around the neck, and the other approximately double its size. Curve the longer wire, then connect it to the smaller piece by twisting its ends around the midsection (use pliers if needed). Now, close the small wire around the light's neck, tightening it and twisting the wire to close it. The longer piece will now be a loop you can use for hanging the light. 

Find spots for your DIY lights where they can be admired — yet remain safe as well. Since they're operated through solar energy, direct sunlight will help them shine their brightest. Note that you can fix outdoor solar lights that stop working if ever there's an issue. You could hang them from tree branches to add enchantment to your space, from a stand-alone shepherd's crook, or from a hook added to your porch, patio, or shed. Just make sure to move them during bad weather to ensure they don't break. 

The DIYer demonstrated how they'd make wonderful pathway lights, too. Simply grab a set of garden stakes, like these Ashman Shepherds Hooks, and stick them in the ground. Hang your lights and they can help make a walkway safer at night. Plus, the pretty shades look charming during the day. If you don't have a path that needs brightening, add the stakes around your backyard or garden as accent lights.

Do you want to make your lights even more unique? Instead of using pre-made crystal chains, you could craft your own dangling embellishments. String wooden beads onto wire for a boho look, or opt for a mixture of bright colors. If you love decor that produces sound, create strands of Magibeads Capiz Shells. Or, incorporate a handful of jingle bells. You could also give your lampshades makeovers. Simply paint or mist them with a frosted spray prior to assembling the lights.