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how do you zig zag string lights

by Jessy Tillman Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Making a Zig-Zag Pattern Download Article

  • 1 Measure your room and choose how far apart to space your lights. ...
  • 2 Hang the first hook from your ceiling near the outlet you’re using. ...
  • 3 Space the hooks along the edge of your ceiling. ...
  • 4 Offset the hooks on the other wall by half the distance between your hooks. ...
  • 5 String the lights tightly between the hooks. ...

The zigzag pattern of hanging lights is one of the easiest, too: Simply fix the strand in place back and forth across a space. Don't try to space it out perfectly or pull the strand tightly – let the lights hang naturally under their own weight. After all, it's the imperfections that make this look so wonderful!May 7, 2019

Full Answer

Why zig zag lighting patterns?

Some people love straight foward thinking, others like to keep things interesting by forging a new path. Zig Zag patterns are a fun choice when you want to add full coverage illumination across your space but desire a more interesting light design.

How do you hang Globe string lights?

You need the right product, the right tools and a design in mind when hanging your globe string lights. Let's walk through it. The first thing to do is measure for both your string lights and the cable guide wire you need for spanning across any open spaces.

How do you hang a zigzag pattern?

Many people hang strings in a zigzag pattern across an open space; if you're doing this, plan for each "zig" or "zag" to be a single cable connected at each end to a screw hook (cables can "share" a screw hook).

How do I measure for outdoor string lights?

The first thing to do is measure for both your string lights and the cable guide wire you need for spanning across any open spaces.

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How do you hang string lights on a pattern?

2:253:55String Light Patterns for Your Backyard | Done-In-A-Weekend ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPlan. From here simply begin hanging your lights. But a word of warning. Make sure to hang yourMorePlan. From here simply begin hanging your lights. But a word of warning. Make sure to hang your lights without the bulbs in them to minimize the chances of breaking.

How do you split string lights?

4:3415:13How to separate incandescent Christmas light strings - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNot where there's three wires. So now you can see we have two wires coming off now. This is the endMoreNot where there's three wires. So now you can see we have two wires coming off now. This is the end that does have the male plug.

How do you connect string lights together?

6:5810:48How to setup string lights like a pro 2022 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd again they are waterproof is that they have hooks on them so you just hook them onto the guyMoreAnd again they are waterproof is that they have hooks on them so you just hook them onto the guy wire.

How do you drape fairy lights?

2:424:54DIY Fairy Light Wall! | sophdoesnails - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI put some masking tape so there we go you can see I put masking tape like three bits on each cornerMoreI put some masking tape so there we go you can see I put masking tape like three bits on each corner. And then I draped it across the top to the next corner of my wall. And put more masking tape.

Can you splice string lights together?

If you don't mind a little asymmetry, then don't sweat it! But if you do, you're probably wondering, “Can you cut string lights?” The short answer is: yes.

Can you splice lights together?

No, you should not do this. Agree with tester. There is no safe or legal way to do this. Also, just for the mention of it, I would say to look at the instructions / specs included with the lights.

Can you wire string lights together?

Connectable string lights have male and female plugs for quick installation. Check your manual to find out how many strands connect to a single outlet. If your fixtures support additional connections, you may be able to work with three or four strands on a single continuous line.

How many strands of lights can I connect together?

With incandescent, only 2 strings can be connected end-to-end, which means you'll need 6 different plug outlets. With the LED option, up to 87 strings can be connected together, which means the 12 you need for this project can be connected end-to-end and then plugged into a single outlet.

How many outdoor string lights can I connect together?

The answer is the number of strings that you can safely daisy-chain together per home outlet. Example: 210 (watts) ÷ 10 (watts per strand) = 21 strands of Christmas lights safety strung together.

How do you make fairy lights look good?

Keep reading to see the many alternative ways there are to display fairy lights.Fake a real fire. ... Create instant task lighting in a kitchen. ... Light up a plain corner. ... Bring more colour to a kids' room. ... String festoons between rooms. ... Highlight a motif. ... Make a feature of furniture. ... Rest lights on your headboard.More items...•

How do you hide battery packs on string lights?

If you have string lights, the easiest way to hide the battery pack is to simply tuck it into the foliage or branches of your Christmas tree. If your lights are on a mantelpiece or another kind of shelf, you can also tuck the battery pack behind the lights so it's hidden from view.

How do you hang curtain string lights?

0:362:29How To Put Up Curtain Lights With Supplies You Already Own - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt's a good idea to zip ties to hold the LEDs. If you have to join two sets of lights together addMoreIt's a good idea to zip ties to hold the LEDs. If you have to join two sets of lights together add one more screw right where they meet it's also a real good idea right now to make sure they work.

How do you make poles for string lights?

DIY String Light PoleStep 1: Gather Materials.Step 2: Cut 2x2s to Desired Post Height.Step 3: Stain or Paint Poles.Step 4: Let Dry.Step 5: Mark & Cut Forming Tubes.Step 6: Close-off One End of Each Tube.Step 7: Mix Concrete.Step 8: Fill Molds With Concrete.More items...

Can string lights be hardwired?

Though it's possible to hardwire outdoor string lights, that process will likely require hiring an electrician. The goal of this guide is to explain how to install plugged-in or solar string lights.

How do you shorten cafe string lights?

The best way to shorten lights wired in series is to remove an entire series section of lights by cutting lights apart where there are only has two wires, with the lights unplugged. Then, simply cap each of the two cut wires with a wire connector.

How do I stream lights in my backyard?

0:292:33How to Hang Outdoor String Lights | The Home Depot - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPull the string lights taut as you go to attach string lights to the stucco or wood of your homeMorePull the string lights taut as you go to attach string lights to the stucco or wood of your home drill a hole then hammer in a wall anchor before screwing in a hook to hang the lights.

What size lights should I use for a patio?

If you need to cover a larger area, large G50 globe lights or S14 party lights would work well to provide ample illumination across a wider distance. For cozy spaces consider using smaller G40 globe lights or even mini lights to create an inviting glow without being overwhelmingly bright. If you like the look of the grid but want a little extra sparkle, try hanging twinkling icicle lights to create a canopy of illumination above your space!

What is a scallop pattern for patio lights?

Hanging patio lights in a scallop pattern is a popular choice for wedding lighting and garden parties. This patio lights pattern results in a delicate and very elegant lighting display and can be achieved with a variety of string light styles!

What is a magic circle?

The Magic Circle. If your landscape includes a gazebo or round canopy, wrap or hang patio lights around the perimeter of either the top or the railings. This creates a circle of light that is truly magical and a stunning backyard focal point!

Can you hang string lights on a patio?

Spring has officially arrived and that means it's time to get in shape! Now don't start dusting off those old workout videos, today we're talking about patio string lights! From straight lines to scallops, string lights can take on many different shapes and almost any of these will work in the area you are looking to illuminate. But, before you begin hanging patio lights, it is helpful to determine the best way to utilize the space you have in order to get the most out of your outdoor lighting project.

Can you crisscross light strings?

You can crisscross light strings across any space to make an X pattern, and this design works especially well in wide spaces or areas that are square shaped. If you have multiple light strings, hang several X's in a row to create a diamond pattern.

Can you hang patio lights vertically?

The Wall Hug Pattern in Patio Lights. Some people hug their trees, others hug their walls! Regardless of hugging preference, patio lights can be hung vertically or horizontally against a wall or even a fence.

Frame the Firepit

Create a frame with your bistro lights to outline an outdoor focal point.

Hanging Tree Lights

Create a Christmas tree design by hanging lights in a triangular shape for a festive feel.

Make a Point

Drape lights from a central base and have them flow out in a “big top” formation to illuminate the night sky.

Meet in the Middle

Cross lights in the center of a space to provide overhead lighting for outdoor relaxing.

From Tree to Eave

Have lights meet in the center for a formation that opens up your space.

Tackling a project like this?

Tell us about it in the comments below or share how you’ve styled your string lights by uploading your creation to social media and tagging #MadexMe and #NationalHrdware .

Outdoor Bulb String Lights

Hangin outdoor bulb string lights across the backyard, deck or inside of an outdoor structure like a gazebo or pergola is a perfect way to add ambient landscape lighting for everyday use, parties and outdoor events. Taking your parties outside at night is always a plus.

Materials and Tools for Hanging Outdoor Bulb String Lights

The installation process can vary depending on where and how you decide to hang your patio lights. Supplies you might need are

Where to Hang Outdoor Bulb String Lights

Outdoor bulb string lights can be placed virtually anywhere in the yard or around the property. Some ideas on where to hang outdoor bulb string lights include:

How to Hang Outdoor Bulb String Lights

However, is there any way to hang outdoor bulb string lights up without putting nails into the wall? Yes! outdoor bulb string lights can be hung in several ways without nails. In most cases, hanging lights without nails is safer, less expensive, and easier in the long run. Some of these ways include:

Glue on Hooks

One of the easiest ways to install patio lights without using any nails is to glue on hooks. When you want to hang up your patio lights, simply peel off the paper covering the adhesive and attach the hook to the wall.

Use Tape and Staples

If you can’t find adhesive hooks or are afraid that the adhesive will be too strong, you can always use tape instead. Try to use clear tape, as that will be less noticeable. A clear tape will also leave less residue adhesive when peeled off.

Where do you hang string lights?

Some of your string lights will hang down your wall into the outlet. Choose an outlet behind a dresser or piece of furniture if you want to hide them.

How to make a zig zag pattern on the ceiling?

Find the point on the opposite side of your room that lines up with your first hook. Instead of placing your hook directly in line with the one on the other side of the room, move it over by half of the distance you’re using. That way, your lights will make the zig-zag pattern on your ceiling.

How to make a straight line with string lights?

Plug your lights into the nearest outlet and run them up your wall to one of the top clips on either side. Hold the string lights tight so they make a straight line up your wall. Loop the light string around the hook once to keep it securely in place.

How to hang a hook on a wall?

Space the hooks along the edge of your ceiling. Install the rest of your hooks across the length of the wall at the distance you chose earlier. Press the adhesive backing onto your ceiling and hold it in place for at least 30 seconds so it’s secure. Work out from your first hook towards the edges of your room so you have even spacing between them.

How to make string lights look relaxed?

If you want a more relaxed look to your room, let your string lights dangle from the hooks loosely rather than pulling them tight.

How to keep lights more discrete?

If you want to keep your lights more discrete, run the lights down a corner of your room and to the outlet. Once they’re plugged in, coil the string lights once around the first hook to hold them in place. Some of your string lights will hang down your wall into the outlet.

How to hang lights in a room?

Measure your room and choose how far apart to space your lights. Use a tape measure to find the length and width of the room where you want to hang your lights. Once you know the dimensions, choose the distance you want to have between your anchor points on the ceiling. If you put them closer together, you’ll need to use more lights but your room will be brighter.

What is a ceiling of string lights?

ceiling of string lights and it is highly popular for events. The swags in this design can be very dramatic since the curvature fans out to points but often includes notable elevation from one point to another. Similar to the horizon point design, this technique may require a number of individual string light strands in order to make the space look balanced.

What happens if your lights are randomly thrown up?

1. If your lights are randomly thrown up...they will always look thrown up.

What is the best way to use a V pattern?

If you think a "V" pattern is your best option, make sure your pinnacle point is well anchored to withstand the constant pull of the string tension from both sides. The "V" pattern can be used almost anywhere.

Can you use string lights on a zig zag?

However , for many outdoor spaces like large backyards, terraces or decks, it may not be enough and you’ll have to consider additional string lighting to make your zig-zag come to life at the size you need. Similar to the patterns above, more hanging points means more structures to hang lights from. If you are "structure challenged" this pattern may be too difficult to achieve without adding multiple posts or poles from which to hang your points.

How to turn off lights when plugging in?

This will make it much easier to ensure that the lead end has enough length to reach the outlet than if you wait until they’re already in place to connect them. Once you’ve inserted the lead end into the outlet, switch the lights to the “Off” position.

How to hang a light cord?

Now all that’s left to do is hang the lights. Plug your first strand into the nearest available power source and begin running the cord from one anchor to the next in the desired configuration. [19]

How to keep lights in place?

If you want to be certain that your lights stay put, attach mini carabiners to the holes at the top of each bulb socket, then clip them to the hooks. The weight will help hold the strands in place.

What to do if you end up with a faulty light?

If you end up with a faulty set of lights, return them to the store you bought them from for a refund or exchange.

How to measure the distance of a hanging light?

Measure the projected path of your lights in feet. Climb a ladder and stretch a tape measure along each section of the overhanging structure where you plan on hanging lights. Round up the number you get to the nearest 1⁄2 ft (0.15 m) and write it down on a pad of paper. Then, add each of the individual measurements together. This will tell you the total distance you’ll need to cover.

What kind of lights do you use for string lights?

String lights come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and bulb styles. The most common types are LED and CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) lights, which give off bright, cool light, and traditional incandescent bulbs, which radiate a warm, soft glow.

Do you need to plug in a battery operated light?

You may not need to plug in your lights if they’re battery-operated.

What color strings light up?

The strings will light up with the intensity of the color for each channel. So if you send Purple R=128, G=0, B=128) , that will light up all the Red and Blue strings but only about 50% intensity. If you just want a string to turn on full brightness without worrying about it then use White.

Where do you plug xlights into?

Create the models in xLights exactly how you will physically build the model. If you have a string of lights and you plug node #1 into the upper left corner of your mega-tree , then xLights should have the mega-tree defined as starting in the upper left corner. All models are controller independent.

What is the MP3 file format for XLights?

xLights currently only supports the MP3 format for audio files. Ensure that the MP3 file is saved with constant bit rate (CBR), preferably 128K or 192K. Use Audacity to export the audio as a constant bit rate file.

How many strings are in a tree model?

So, the model is 8 strings of 100 with 2 strands.

How many channels can you use with XLights?

The general rule is that you can do 96 channels of LOR with xLights if the LOR controllers are in LOR mode. Your best bet would be to put the LOR controllers in DMX mode and then xLights can do it all. You can import all your LOR sequences, schedule them play them, edit them, etc.

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