From silver stars to pink flamingos, patio lights have become must-have accessories for indoor and outdoor recreation rooms. I first learned of this clever light-string idea from my Auntie Linda, who is the ultimate crafty lady in the family.
She has always had a magic touch when it comes to creating cozy and whimsical atmospheres in her house. Every time I visit, I'm awestruck by how many colorful creations she has come up with -- plant pokes, lawn ornaments, photo collages, table centerpieces, down to the handmade party invitations she sends us every year. However, it was these terra cotta patio lights that made me gasp in delight.
I used fabric scraps from a Mexican serape and raffia, but you can easily coordinate alternative fabrics and/or ribbons to match your decor. Supplies can be found at most craft stores.
Terra Cotta Patio Lights Supplies:
* String of white outdoor minilights
* Terra cotta pots (2-inch size)
* Fabric
* Ruler
* Scissors
* Fabric glue stick
* Newspaper
* Glue gun
* Raffia or ribbon
Directions: Count the number of lights on the string and purchase the same number of pots. Cut the same number of fabric strips measuring 6 1/2 inches by one-half inch so there is one for each pot. With the glue stick, attach fabric strips to the rims of the pots. Let dry, then go back and trim any excess fabric.
Place one light inside the hole of a pot so it goes all the way through but still fits snuggly. If the hole is not big enough, open a pair of scissors and use one blade to scrape inside the hole to enlarge it. Work on top of newspaper, because this will create a pile of terra cotta "dust." Do this to all of the pots until the lights fit firmly inside the hole.
Using a hot-glue gun, attach the lights inside the pots one by one. Let dry. If desired, add raffia bows in between the pots.
Tip: Don't have fabric scraps? Ribbon works even better!

* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Cinco DeMayo, garden, Latin-inspired, lights, outdoor