How to Hang Outdoor String Lights

Hanging outdoor string lights is a simple project, but it does require some planning. When hanging globe light strings, you need the right products, the right tools, and the right design. Let's take a look.

Step 1: Measure and Prepare
Begin by measuring your light string and the cable leads you'll need to span any open space. When measuring your light string, be sure to factor in enough length to reach your power source, and for the cable leads, be sure to order enough length to loop the cable back on itself at all mounting points (adding about 12 inches per span is plenty).

Order your light string (we have a lot to choose from!) and cable leads, as well as extra cable clips-you'll need two for each span you plan to run. Then it's time to get everything you need to get started:

• Your new light string
• Cable guides
• Screw hooks
• Extra cable clips
• Wire cutters
• Zip chain

If you plan to hardwire your lights instead of plugging them into an outlet, consider our custom length light strings to order the exact length you need to fit your space.

Step 2: Install the screw hooks
Begin your installation by placing the screw hooks at your chosen mounting points at either end of the space. Make sure to mount the screw hooks to something sturdy, such as under the eaves of a building, a large tree, or other sturdy structure. Many people hang string lights in a zigzag pattern across an open space; if you do this, plan to design each "zigzag" or "zigzag" as a cable with both ends connected to screw hooks (cables can "share" a screw hook). In other words, while the string lights can loop back and forth continuously across an open space, it is easiest to cut each cable wire for each span individually.

Step 3: Attach and tighten the cables
Once the screw hooks are in place, you can begin hanging the cables. Attach the spring hook* on the cable guide to the screw hook at one end of the span

Thread the unfinished end of the cable onto the other screw hook, thread it through, and then thread the cable wire through the other cable clamp. The cable clamp allows you to adjust the length and tightness of the wire. Once you have achieved the right length/tightness, you can cut off the excess wire sticking out of the cable clamp.

Alternatively, you can use a turnbuckle to more easily achieve the desired wire tension

If you are making a zigzag or other pattern and need to change direction at a sharper angle, the wire will naturally bend and you may choose to stop and start the wire by cutting the wire and using additional cable clamps to make the intersection.

Step 4: Attach the Light String
Once the wires are installed, you are ready to hang the string lights. we recommends using zip ties (preferably the same color as the string lights) to secure the string lights to the cable wires. For maximum support, use zip ties on both sides of each outlet (instead of using the loops on the outlet). Our commercial-grade light strings do have mounting holes (either above or on the sides of the outlets), but we recommend using zip ties for long-term reliability and easier installation.

Optionally, using additional zip ties between outlets can help add security and maintain a "clean" look to the installation. If spanning multiple spans in a zigzag or other pattern, secure the wires at the corners with zip ties when changing direction. The same technique can be used whether your outlets are in-line or hanging, as shown.

Step 5: Sit back and enjoy!
Now you can sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Wait until dusk, turn on your string lights, invite some friends over, and show off your work!