Outdoor fireplace surrounded by string light poles in planters

How to Make String Light Poles with Planters

This quick, easy, and budget-friendly project uses planters and string light poles to create a beautiful outdoor lighting fixture. Add some light and charm to any outdoor living space, like a patio, lounge spot, or dining area.

Skill
Intermediate
Time
One Day

Tools

Materials

Before You Start

It is best to work on this project outside, close to where you want it to go when finished, because the completed poles are very heavy.

If you want the poles to be matte black or a rich mahogany brown, then simply apply a couple of coats of outdoor stain or paint.

Depending on the shape and size of your outdoor area, you may need to make more or fewer posts for best results.

  1. 1

    Install Screw Hooks

  2. Steps:

  3. 1.1
    Install the 2 screw hooks that will be used to hold the string lights at the top of each post.
Person securing screw hooks onto a wooden post
  1. 2

    Secure Each Post to Its Planter

  2. Steps:

  3. 2.1

    Stand each post vertically in its planter and use 2 screws and washers to secure it.

Person securing a wooden post to a planter
  1. 3

    Make the Concrete

  2. Steps:

  3. 3.1
    Mix water and quick curing concrete in a bucket according to the instructions on the packaging.
  4. 3.2
    Use a concrete mixer drill attachment to mix.

Person mixing concrete in a pail

Pro Tip

Don’t have a concrete mixer? No problem. Simply use a long wooden stick to prepare the concrete.

  1. 4

    Pour the Concrete for the Foundation

  2. Steps:

  3. 4.1
    Pour the concrete into the planters, around the wood posts.
  4. 4.2
    To prevent the planters from tipping over, fill them 3/4 of the way.
  5. 4.3
    Allow it to dry for as long as the packaging instructs.
Person pouring concrete into a planter
  1. 5

    Finalize Your Project with Flowers and Mulch

  2. Steps:

  3. 5.1
    Use a level to check that the planters are straight.
  4. 5.2
    Lay down drainage stones in a thin layer, then cover them with mulch or soil and plant some nice flowers of your choosing.

  1. 6

    String Up the Lights

  2. Steps:

  3. 6.1

      Hang the string lights from the screw hooks in your preferred layout.

    Disclaimer

    These tutorials are provided for informational purposes only. The information contained in Lowe’s tutorials is intended to provide general guidelines to simplify jobs around the house. Because tools, products, materials, techniques, building codes, and local regulations are continually changing, Lowe’s Companies Canada ULC assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein and disclaims any liability for the omissions, errors, or outcome of any project. Lowe’s Companies Canada ULC. makes no representation on the feasibility of any project and the viewer bears all risks coming with the realization of the projects. It is the responsibility of the viewer to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, rules, codes, and regulations for a project. The viewer must always take proper safety precautions and exercise caution when taking on any project. If there is any doubt in regard to any element of a project, please consult a licensed professional.

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