Right now, with all that is going on in the world, we are able to enjoy every aspect of our home whether we want to or not. However, getting a little fresh air is a must when you're cooped up inside tutoring your children or working virtually from your in-home office all day.
I found a block post on the DIY Network page on how to install string lights using wood barrels, concrete and posts and I thought, what a fantastic DIY project to do to your porch or deck, especially right now while a lot of us have time at home.
Here is what you need:
Tools and Materials
- planter barrels
- 4x4 post
- (4) bags Quikrete
- water
- shovel
- C-hooks
- string lights
- flowers
- potting mix
- hand trowel
- scrap wood
- pneumatic nail gun
- nails
- air compressor
- level
- drill
- drill bit
- zip ties
You can find these items at your local hardware store.
Step 1: Mix Concrete in Barrel
The concrete should fill about ½ to ¾ of the barrel to provide enough stability for the posts. Set a planter barrel in place and mix the concrete in the barrel. We filled the barrel with about 8”-10” of concrete to a make a 16”-18” planter.
Mix the concrete with water and shake the planter to ensure air bubbles in the mix rise to the top. If you are using several bags of concrete, it is easier to mix one at a time.
Step 2: Insert Post
Set the 4x4 post in the center of the planter and check the level to make sure the post is not leaning.
Step 3: Support Post
Screw scrap wood to the post to hold it upright while the concrete is setting. Add another bag of concrete if necessary.
Step 4: Add Drainage Holes to Planter
Use a drill to make drainage holes just above the line of concrete.
Step 5: Fill With Soil and Plants
After the concrete has cured, add a layer of pebbles to help with drainage. Then fill the barrel with potting mix and selected flowers.
Step 6: Add Hooks
At the top of the 4x4 post, pre-drill a hole for the C-hook that will hold the string lights. Insert a C-hook in each of the poles toward the top. Hang string lights from the C-hooks using zip ties to secure the lights to the hooks. Hang the lights around the perimeter of the space, crisscrossing the area if desired.
Step 7: Enjoy
Turn on the lights and enjoy the night.
DIYnetwork Pictures – credit to: Gary Payne
Optional Step:
For a change in color, try painting your wood barrels. Giani Chalkworthy Antiquing Paint offers a variety of colors to choose from. For more information visit Chalkworthy Antiquing Paint.
Picture credit to: In My Own Style