Decorating Porch Columns and Railings with Christmas Lights

Getting Started with Christmas Lights on Your Porch

Ever stood out on your porch in early December, steaming mug of cocoa in hand, looking up at those bare columns and railings, thinking they could use a bit of holiday cheer? Me too. There’s something utterly magical about the gentle glow of Christmas lights, especially when they highlight the charming structure of your porch. It’s like your home is getting dressed up for a holiday party! So, let’s jump into the merry and bright world of decorating porch columns and railings with Christmas lights.

Choosing Your Christmas Lights: Make Or Break Your Design

Picking out the perfect lights can be overwhelming with so many types available. I’ve gone through my fair share of "oops" moments (like the year I accidentally bought blue-toned lights instead of warm white and it looked like my house was frozen). Here’s what I’ve learned:

• String Lights: Traditional and versatile, these lights are perfect for wrapping around columns and draping over railings. They come in a variety of bulb sizes and colors, so you can match them to your home’s style.
• LED vs. Incandescent: LEDs are more energy-efficient and last longer than incandescent bulbs. Although they might cost a bit more upfront, they save you money in the long run.
• Net Lights: Using net lights is great for evenly covering your railings and can save you a lot of untangling time.

Remember, you're not just decorating; you're also adding a layer of illumination to your home's entrance. Quality matters, so it’s worth investing in waterproof, outdoor-rated lights. There’s nothing worse than having half of your decorations go dark mid-December because they weren’t built for the outdoors. (superioraluminum.com)

Embellishing Porch Columns: Techniques to Try

Wrapping porch columns in Christmas lights can turn them into glowing pillars of joy. However, doing this effectively can be tricky:

1. Measure: Start by measuring your columns to determine how many lights you'll need. Pro tip: buy a little more than you think. It’s better to have extra than to run short!
2. Preparation: Make sure your columns are clean and dry to help the lights adhere better if you’re using light clips.
3. Method of Wrapping: You can choose to wrap the lights tightly for a bright, dense look or more loosely for a casual spiral. For beginners, I suggest starting from the bottom and working your way up, ensuring the lights are secure as you go.

My personal favorite technique is to add a touch of greenery before I wrap the lights. This not only adds extra flare but also gives the lights something to nestle into, which helps distribute the glow evenly. (brookeandtheboys.com)

Decking Out Railings: A Step-by-Step Guide

Railings can be a bit easier to decorate than columns, but they offer a fantastic opportunity to get creative:

• Secure the Start: Begin at one end of the railing, securing the end of the light strand with a zip tie or a special outdoor light clip.
• Follow the Line: Carefully run your lights along the railing, making sure to keep the string taut but not too tight as to pull the bulbs. Attach the lights at regular intervals to keep them from sagging.
• Add Extras: Ribbons, bows, or small garlands can be intertwined with the lights for that extra festive touch.

For those of you with spiral railings or unusually shaped porches, experiment with different draping styles. Some years I’ve gone straight down the line; others, I’ve created a zigzag pattern for a whimsical effect.

The Power of Timer Switches

Now, unless you want to manually plug in and unplug your display each night (who has the time?), you’re going to want a timer. I can’t emphasize enough how life-changing this small gadget can be. Timer switches automatically turn your lights on and off, helping you save energy and ensuring your house is lit up even if you’re not home. Plus, coming home to a lit-up porch after a long day’s work is always nice. (architecturaldigest.com)

Wrapping It All up with a Bow

Once your porch columns and railings are covered in twinkling lights, stand back and admire your handiwork. There’s something incredibly rewarding about creating a welcoming, holiday-inspired entrance to your home. Whether you keep it simple or go all out, these decorated columns and railings can offer a festive statement to anyone who passes by.

The real joy in this project, beyond the aesthetic enhancement to your home, is the process itself. From choosing your light theme to seeing the final look, each step offers a chance to make holiday memories. So, whether you’re a seasoned decorator or a first-timer, embrace the season, experiment with styles, and maybe even share the experience with friends or family.

Last but certainly not least, grab that mug of cocoa (or maybe mulled wine?), step onto your newly decorated porch, and enjoy the view. After all, it’s the season to bask in the glow—both literally and metaphorically!