How to: Outdoor Special Effects Lighting

Outdoor lighting can add instant interest and charm to any nighttime landscape.

Outdoor lighting can add interest and charm to any setting. Whether you want to dress up a special occasion, illuminate a patio or light up landscaping, there are several simple ways to get creative with special effects lighting outdoors



A wide array of specialty outdoor lighting products is available, making the only limitation your own imagination. Shop at any major home improvement retailer or garden supply store to find lighting that will meet your needs with style. A few ideas and some basic tools are all you need to create your own special nightscape.

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• Pencil
• Solar lights
• String lights
• Colored 60-watt bulbs
• Candles
• Candle holders
• Torches
• Extension cord
• Staple gun
• Staples
• Twist ties
• Tape

Instructions

Design

1. Draw the area you will be lighting. Include all features and furniture in the drawing, such as flower beds, archways, patio furniture and water features.

2. Decide if you prefer general illumination of an entire area, feature spotlighting, or both.

3. Find power supplies. Outdoor outlets work well for general lighting near a building. Many varieties of solar lights are available for locations without power.

4. Choose a style to decorate in. You will get best results if you stick with one style. Some popular styles are romantic, antique, modern, minimalist, fantasy and rugged. Each style has its own common features and appearance.

5. Draw in lighting at appropriate places. Feel free to experiment and move things around on paper to get the best ideas. Experiment with spot lighting to draw attention to prominent or unusual features like a waterfall or rose garden. String a gazebo with mini lights. Line a patio, walkway or pool area with solar lights. Put colored bulbs in outdoor light fixtures.

Light Up

1. Run extension cords to power electric lights at remote locations. Make sure there are no cracks, breaks or exposed wiring in the cord. Extension cords with a reset button are recommended for damp locations.

2. Charge solar lights according to manufacturer instructions. Place lights firmly into the ground at chosen locations.

3. Attach stringed lights to the chosen surface. Staple over the cord to attach to rooflines. Wrap twist ties around the cord and any freestanding structures like gazebos or archways. Wrap stringed lights around columns and posts and tape securely at the top and bottom. You can also string lights through tree branches.

4. Place pillar candles on tall stands or use torches for extra charm.

5. Place floating candles in water features or in large crystal bowls for an eye-catching display of light.

Tips & Warnings

• Scotch brand makes transparent duct tape perfect for almost invisible outdoor use.

• Hide solar lights inside the foliage of gardens for an interesting display of light and shadow.

• Place lights where you will see the illumination, not the light itself, unless the lighting fixture itself warrants attention.

• Always check wiring on lights and cords when using power outdoors. Exposed wiring or tears in the protective covering can start an electrical fire.

• Do not put electrical lighting near water features.

• A little lighting can go a long way. Don't overdo it.

References

• Backyard Design Ideas: Paint Your Backyard With Outdoor Lighting
• Creative Outdoor Lighting: Add a Little Personality With Decorative Outdoor Lighting
• Our House and Garden: Decorative Outdoor Lighting Ideas