DIY: Lighting a Patio for Family Friday Nights with Round Bulbs and Magnetic Clips
Every season is a great reason to hang out with family on the back patio. In Texas, we bundle up for the winter months just as happily as we sip a margarita in the summer heat — and the best part about winter? No mosquitos. (In summer, that's what the mist system is for!)
Jeff and Michelle were kind enough to photograph and share their patio, strung with round glass bulbs and cords. Installed for a graduation party, they're still enjoying them all year long. A few strategic feet of bulbs and cords completely transformed their backyard.
Get the Look
MATERIALS
- 2 cords — 50 Foot E17 (Traditional C9) Cords
- 150 bulbs — White (Transparent) G50 Glass Bulbs
- 50 — Magnetic Clips
- 50–100 — Quick Klips for installation on wood (uses small nails)
Installation Tips
Working with glass bulbs? Order an extra box — breakage happens.
Test before you commit. Run a magnet over your patio trim or flashing first to make sure it's actually magnetic and not just "metal-looking."
Clip spacing: install a clip every bulb up to every 3–4 bulbs, depending on how much swag you want.
Compatibility note: these clips only work with traditional 18-AWG lamp cord style lights. The clip snugs onto the bottom of the socket while the wire loops under the side to hold it in place — they're not a great fit for multi-wire harness light strings.
Now, enough talking — let's look at the photos!
In this installation, the homeowners chose to swag alternate bulbs, clipping every other socket. The result speaks for itself.
Using an adapter tied to a switched outlet makes it easy to power the lights on and off right from inside the house.
A closer look at the clips in action:
Ready for the party!
We so appreciate these photos and would love to see yours. Share them on social — tag @christmaslightsource, #christmaslightsource.
Originally published June 14, 2019
