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Outdoor fireplace surrounded by string light poles
Do it yourself

How to Build String Light Poles Using Planters

Discover how to build string light poles using planters in just a few simple and budget-friendly steps. Lighting up an outdoor space—like a patio, relaxation spot, or dining area—has never been this easy.

Difficulty level: Intermediate
Duration: 1 day
Before You Start
We recommend working on this project outdoors near where you want the posts to be as the completed project is very heavy.

Want matte black or mahogany brown poles? No worries—a couple coats of outdoor paint or stain will do the trick!

Depending on your space’s shape (square, diamond, triangle, or circle), you may need to build a different number of posts.
Person installing screw hooks on a wooden post
1

Install the Screw Hooks

  • 1.1 - Install 2 screw hooks at the top of each post; these are what will hold up the string lights.
Person using a drill to secure a post in a planter
2

Secure the Posts in the Planters

  • 2.1 - Secure each post vertically in planters using 2 screws and washers.
Person mixing concrete with a drill and mixer
3

Prepare the Concrete

  • 3.1 - Pour the quick curing concrete and the water in a bucket, following the instructions and quantities on the packaging.
  • 3.2 - Mix using a concrete mixer attached to a drill.

Pro Tip

If you don’t have a concrete mixer on hand, you can prepare your concrete using a long wooden stick.
Person pouring concrete into a planter
4

Pour Concrete to Create Solid Foundations

  • 4.1 - Pour the concrete around the wood post in your planters.
  • 4.2 - Fill the planter 3/4 of the way to make sure it won’t tip over.
  • 4.3 - Wait for the duration of the dry time on the packaging.
5

Complete the Look with Mulch or Flowers

  • 5.1 - Make sure the planters are straight using a level.
  • 5.2 - Add a thin layer of drainage stones then cover it with mulch or soil with flowers of your choosing.
6

Hang the String Lights

  • 6.1 - Hang the string lights in whichever layout you prefer.

Disclaimer

These DIY projects are provided for informational purposes only. The information contained in RONA’s DIYs 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, RONA inc. assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein and disclaims any liability for the omissions, errors, or outcome of any project. RONA inc. 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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