Fairy lights are one of the easiest ways to bring warmth and sparkle into your space. In this list, you’ll discover creative projects that turn simple string lights into magical décor for both your home and garden.
You can drape them over furniture, tuck them into jars, or even design enchanting outdoor displays that glow beautifully at night. With just a few supplies and a little imagination, you can add charm to any corner.
These 25 DIY fairy light ideas will inspire you to craft your own dreamy atmosphere that feels like stepping into a storybook.
#1 String Picture Display

A string picture display is a charming way to turn your favorite photos into wall art. Instead of tucking memories away in an album, you can showcase them in plain view where they’ll brighten your space every day.
All you need is a sturdy frame or blank wall, some string, and small clips to hang your pictures with ease. Try arranging the photos by theme or color to give the display a personal touch.
You can swap them out anytime, making it a flexible and creative décor piece. It’s a simple idea that adds warmth, personality, and a hint of nostalgia to your room.
#2 Hanging Branch Fairy Light

This design feels like a piece of an enchanted forest brought indoors. A natural tree branch is wrapped with soft fairy lights, and delicate strands of glowing wires hang down like sparkling rain.
To make your own, start by finding a sturdy branch with an interesting shape and texture. Wrap it carefully with fairy lights, making sure the wire blends into the wood. Then let strands of lights hang loosely to mimic a curtain of stars.
Hang the branch with transparent fishing line or hooks for a floating illusion. This setup works perfectly over a dining table, in a cozy corner, or even as a magical outdoor display.
#3 DIY Lantern For Side Table

#4 New Mason Jar Wall Sconce Fairy Lights Hanging Rustic Country Farmhouse Decor

#5 Glass Bottle Fairy Light

#6 DIY Fairy Light Lantern

#7 A DIY Twig Frame With String Light

#8 A Fairy Light Tree

#9 Old Pallet Decor

#10 Decorate Hanging Swing With Fairy Lights

#11 Fairy Lights For Bedroom

#12 Big Star!

#13 Lighted Mirror

#14 String Light For Trees

This idea brings magic into your backyard or garden by wrapping fairy lights around tree trunks. The warm golden glow transforms ordinary trees into enchanting lanterns, creating a dreamy and inviting atmosphere.
A simple wooden chair with a soft pillow adds the perfect touch, turning the space into a peaceful corner for reading, relaxing, or enjoying quiet evenings under the stars.
To make the scene even more charming, choose waterproof outdoor lights and wrap them neatly around the trees, letting the soft illumination define the natural beauty of the space.
#15 Tin Can Lantern

Old tin cans can turn into the most charming little lanterns for your backyard. When you punch small holes in the sides, the candlelight glows through and creates star-like patterns across the grass.
You can paint the cans for extra color or leave them shiny for a rustic look.
All you need is a hammer, a nail, and some patience to create the designs. Line them up along a pathway to guide guests or hang them on hooks to bring a soft, cozy glow outside.
#16 Hanging Mason Jars On Branches Of A Tree

This setup turns an ordinary outdoor dining space into a magical gathering spot. Soft fairy lights are strung through the tree branches, while glass jars hang elegantly with glowing candles inside, swaying gently with the evening breeze.
The wooden table beneath is beautifully decorated with fresh flowers, candles, and neatly arranged tableware, creating a warm and romantic setting perfect for dinner with loved ones.
As the lights twinkle against the backdrop of nature, the whole scene feels like an enchanted forest feast, inviting guests to linger longer under the soft glow of the evening sky.
#17 Rustic Dining Table With String Light

This rustic outdoor dining space feels warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or family. A sturdy wooden table and benches, crafted from thick, weathered planks, bring a raw and natural charm to the setting.
Overhead, a string of glowing bulb lights stretches between two wooden posts, casting a golden glow that softens the rugged look of the wood.
Simple place settings with red plates and striped straws in mason jars add a playful, cheerful touch, while a small planter of fresh greenery at the center of the table ties the whole space back to nature.
#18 Old Wheel With Fairy Light

An old bicycle wheel takes on a new life when you dress it up with fairy lights and a touch of greenery. The spokes sparkle like tiny stars, turning a simple piece of metal into something magical for your garden.
You can hang it from a sturdy tree branch or porch beam where it will catch the eye as the sun sets. Wrap lights around the frame, tuck in some moss or vines, and you have a glowing accent that feels both rustic and charming.
Try placing a few of these at different heights to make your outdoor space feel more playful and inviting.
#19 Hanging Mason Jar Candle Holders

Hanging jars filled with glowing candles can instantly give your garden a cozy, romantic touch. The glass reflects the light beautifully, making the flames look even warmer against the green backdrop.
You only need a few sturdy jars, some wire for handles, and small candles to bring this look to life. Hang them at different heights to create a soft twinkle above your seating area.
If you want extra charm, add a sprig of fresh herbs or flowers inside the jar before lighting. This little project turns an ordinary evening outside into something memorable.
#20 Glowing Watering Can with Fairy Lights

This watering can light display looks like it’s pouring golden drops over your flowers, adding a touch of whimsy to the garden at night. The soft glow highlights the plants beautifully and makes the space feel magical after sunset.
To create it, attach a string of fairy lights inside the spout and let them cascade down like streams of water. Secure the can on a sturdy hook or pole so it stays in place.
You can even hide the battery pack in the soil or behind a pot for a clean look. It’s a simple project that makes your garden feel alive even in the dark.
#21 Lightning Bugs

This outdoor chandelier wrapped in twinkling lights feels like something out of a fairy tale. Hung from a tree, it turns an ordinary corner of the garden into a glowing retreat where evenings feel extra special.
You can give an old chandelier a second life by covering it with strings of warm fairy lights, weaving them around each arm until the entire frame sparkles. Secure the fixture firmly to a strong branch with a chain or rope so it hangs safely.
It’s a stunning way to add elegance to outdoor dinners, garden parties, or even just quiet nights under the stars.
#22 Bright Fairy Lights

This dreamy bedroom glows with warmth thanks to the curtain of fairy lights cascading across the wall. Soft pink accents, a vanity filled with pretty details, and a delicate faux blossom tree make the space feel romantic and inviting.
You can easily recreate this look by draping string lights behind your bed or desk to give the room a cozy, golden backdrop. Add a few pastel accessories and mirrors to reflect the light, making the room appear brighter and more open.
It’s the perfect setup if you love a soft, feminine space that feels relaxing yet stylish.
#23 DIY Fairy Light Lanterns

These glowing string light orbs bring a playful and cozy touch to any space. Their handmade look adds charm, making them perfect for placing on a table, tucking into corners, or even hanging for a floating effect.
You can make your own by wrapping twine around a balloon, letting it dry with glue, and then popping the balloon to keep the hollow shape.
Slip fairy lights inside for a soft, magical glow that instantly brightens the mood. They’re simple, creative, and give your home a warm, inviting sparkle.
#24 Fairy Light With Big Candles

These pillar candles wrapped in delicate string lights create a soft, glowing ambiance that feels both cozy and elegant.
The gentle flicker of the candle flame paired with the warm twinkle of the lights adds depth and texture, turning a simple mantel into a dreamy display.
Perfect for evenings when you want to relax or for special gatherings, this setup brings a touch of romance and sophistication to your home.
#25 Curtain Fairy Lights Above Bed

This cozy bedroom glows with a canopy of warm fairy lights stretched across the ceiling, creating the illusion of sleeping under a starlit sky.
The soft golden light fills the room with a dreamy, intimate warmth that makes it the perfect retreat for unwinding at the end of the day.
Paired with plush pillows, stuffed animals, and a neutral-toned bedspread, the space feels both inviting and magical, like a little sanctuary where comfort and wonder meet.