Pre Lit Garland For Dazzling Outdoor Decor
Outdoor spaces beg to be dressed up for the holidays. While lights strung on trees and bushes create ambient glow, garlands add a more dynamic decorative touch. Pre-lit garland winds around railings, frames doorways, and drapes over mantles to infuse outdoor areas with festive spirit. With the right garland, you can easily create an Instagram-worthy winter wonderland right in your own yard.
You'll learn key considerations for selecting and installing garland outdoors. We'll also share creative ways to decorate with garland and recommend some top-rated outdoor pre-lit garland products. Let's dive in to learn how pre-lit garland can make your outdoor holiday decor shine.
What Is Pre-Lit Garland?
Pre-lit garland features string lights woven into greenery so it arrives ready to decorate right out of the box. It's an easy way to add festive lighting to your outdoor space without the hassle of weaving your own lights. Here's an overview of pre-lit garland:
- Made of artificial greenery, real branches, or a blend of both
- Integrated with 50-100 incandescent or LED lights
- Available in different lengths from 4 feet up to 40 feet
- Powered by batteries, timers, or plug-ins
- Decorative accents like pinecones may be included
- Weatherproof options suitable for outdoor use
With so many styles to choose from, it's easy to find pre-lit greenery garlands that match your outdoor decor vision and illumination needs.
Benefits of Pre-Lit Garland for Outdoors
Pre-lit garland offers many advantages for outdoor holiday decorating:
- It's fast and easy to install. Just unwind it and decorate.
- The lights are secured so no tedious stringing required.
- It brings gorgeous glow to trees, railings, corners and overhangs.
- Styles range from simple to ornate to suit any theme.
- It's reusable for many seasons.
- Outdoor options are durable and weatherproof.
Pre-lit garland saves time while creating a beautifully illuminated winter wonderland with little effort. Let's look at considerations for selecting the right garland for your outdoor space.
Key Considerations for Outdoor Use
To make sure your garland thrives outside, keep these factors in mind:
Weatherproof Materials
Look for garlands made of high-quality, durable greenery and lights. Pine, cedar, and noble fir resist moisture and retain their shape better than cheaper PVC options. Incandescent bulbs fare better in wet conditions than LEDs. Waterproof LEDs are ideal but cost more. Also check that any ornaments like pinecones are weather-resistant.
Power Source
Battery-operated garlands offer the most installation flexibility since you don't need an outdoor outlet. But you'll need to periodically replace batteries which gets expensive. Timer-controlled, plug-in garlands are energy efficient. Use outdoor extension cords rated for the wattage. For hard-wire installations, hire an electrician to run wiring and install a waterproof outlet.
Lighting Style
Determine the mood you want to set. White LEDs provide maximum brightness to illuminate paths and accessories. Multicolored LEDs showcase a vibrant rainbow. Warm white incandescent lights create a traditional ambiance. Compare lighting modes - steady on, slow fade, chasing, twinkle, and color fade - to find your favorite.
Selecting weather-resistant materials, convenient power options, and your preferred lighting effects will ensure an eye-catching display. Next let's explore ways to creatively decorate with outdoor pre-lit garland.
Decorating with Pre-Lit Garland
It's time for the fun part - decorating your exterior with dazzling, festive garland! Consider these ideas:
Entryways
Welcome guests with a garland wrapped around porch columns. Drape it over front doors for a warm, inviting glow. Weave greenery over lampposts by the sidewalk. Frame the driveway or path to your door with sparkling lights.
Patios, Decks and Gazebos
Adorn overhead beams and railings with garland. Wrap pillars and posts with its green glow. Outline the edges of decks and patios to define the space. Drape it over back doors and lighting fixtures.
Trees, Shrubs, Fences
Wind garland around tree trunks and branches. Use clips to attach it to fences and shrubs. Outline garden beds and landscaping with its colorful shine. Weave it into wrought iron benches, arbors, and trellises.
Those are just a few ideas to spur your creativity. Now let's look at ways to make your garland display truly unique.
Getting Creative with Garland
Take your garland decor up a notch with these clever tips:
Shape It
Customize the shape for a perfect fit. Gather and twist it to create wreaths for railings or window frames. Loop it into circles or hearts to adorn posts. Shape wide garlands into tree skirts.
Use Clips, Ties, Stakes
Secure garland with plastic clips on trees, wreaths, and pole wraps. Bendable branches allow shaping around objects. Use zip ties, twist ties, or decorative metal stakes to attach garland in custom ways.
DIY Accents
Make your own whimsical accents. Wrap battery-lit wire vines around garland. Wire in pine cones, berries, and flowers. Interlace ribbons and beads for pops of color. Incorporate realistic fruit slices, leaves, or snowflakes.
The design options are endless when you think outside the box. Read on for tips on properly installing your garland display.
Installation Tips
Proper installation ensures your pre-lit garland lasts for seasons to come. Follow these tips:
Mind the Spacing
Leave 2-3 inches between lights to prevent overheating. Stretch garland tight to keep it flat and straight. For trees and posts, wind it downward slightly to avoid sagging.
Drape and Wrap
Use long lengths and wrap garland multiple times when framing doors and pillars for fullness. For railings, carefully drape so lights don't droop. Wrap garlands up, down, and diagonally for visual interest.
Secure Strategically
Use hooks, clips, and twist ties to securely anchor garland, especially on railings and fencing. Work cords and plugs behind objects. Hide exposed cords or secure with cable clips.
With good planning and strategic installation, your garland will shine brightly all season long. Now let's look at ways to get the most out of your pre-lit garland with year-round ideas.
Year-Round Uses
Pre-lit greenery garlands aren't just for Christmas! Re-purpose them to decorate for:
Winter
Keep wintry vibes going by adorning garland with faux snowflakes, glittery snowball ornaments, and pine cones. Drape it on arbors and gazebos even without the lights on.
Valentine's Day
Create romantic glow by decorating with heart ornaments, red berries, and roses. Soften bright lighting with lace or tulle.