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12 Different Ways to Use the Same Strand of Lights

June 01, 2015
Use vintage-style multicolored twinkle lights to bring unstructured, urban holiday touches to everyday objects.
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Photo: Brian Patrick Flynn

Masculine Touch

Horns and skulls may not seem like holiday decor, but with the addition of vintage colored lights, these staples of masculine decor can take on a playful, urban vibe. Consider hanging the fixtures near an entrance, wrapping them with a single strands of lights, then using a cloth-wrapped extension cord to add vintage charm.

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Photo: Brian Patrick Flynn

Illuminated Frames

Reinvent empty frames as illuminated sculptures with the addition of colored lights. For indoor use, standard vintage-style lights can be used to wrap wall-hung frames, placed near outlets. To help disguise extension cords, consider grouping several frames vertically, tucking the cord behind each frame, then into outlets near the bottom of the wall. For outdoor use, such as a repurposed wreath alternative placed on a front door, it's best to use battery-operated lights.

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Photo: Brian Patrick Flynn

Bold Centerpiece

Put a natural yet unexpected twist on your holiday centerpiece with a birch log bundle wrapped with colored lights. When used on a formal dining table, it's best to use battery-operated versions; however, when placed on a sideboard or console table, plug-in lights work well since the cord can easily be tucked and hidden from view.

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Photo: Brian Patrick Flynn

Bright Finds

Bring rustic appeal to your yard or interior by wrapping weathered architectural relics with lights. The contrast between the dulled, organic surfaces and the boldness of colored lights results in a conversation piece which truly pops.

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