Hanging Solar Lights | Small Lanterns
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Using simple materials—a ribbed glass candle holder, a basic solar stake light, and a bit of wire or hot glue, you can effortlessly repurpose dollar-store finds into inviting solar lanterns. These clever little lanterns not only elevate your décor but also harness the sun’s energy for an eco‑friendly evening glow. Ready to brighten your yard with budget‑friendly charm? These hanging solar lights are perfect for small shepherd hooks, hanging on a fence, or even scattered on your steps.
Be sure to check out the projects from my creative blogging friends at the bottom of this post!
Two Dollar Hanging Solar Lights

I love all kinds of solar lights, but these have quickly become my favorite so far!

I was thrilled when I discovered these Ribbed Glass Candleholders with Copper Coils at my local store! But I had NO idea how easy this project was going to be until I started taking off the coils that I thought were string. The glass candleholders are small, at only 4”.
Did you know that you can place an order at $$$ Tree.com and have items shipped right to your door?
Supplies to Make Easy Hanging Solar Lights

To make the hanging solar lights, you will need the following:
- Ribbed Glass Candleholder
- Solar Light
- Needle Nose Pliers
- Tape Measure
- Glue Gun
Snip Wire From Candle Holder

Using the needle-nose pliers, I snipped and untwisted the coiled wire from the candle holder. At this point, I realized that this was wire—perfectly twisted wire!
Tie Loops in Twisted Wire

If you can tie a knot, you’ve got it made! The small loops should be right at 4 inches apart. Each wire is enough to make one hanging solar light. Snip the wire about 12 inches for this step.

You can easily twist your wire using a cordless drill like I did for this loaf pan.
Get the tips here: Loaf Pan Planter

Start with a large loop, then gently pull until the loop gets smaller. Getting the loops 4” apart is the most challenging part of this project.
Bend the Wire Around the Glass Candle Holder

Wrap the twisted wire around the glass candle holder.

Wrap the wire to interlock it in place, ensuring the loops are positioned near the top.
Use the Remaining Wire to Make a Hanging Solar Light Handle

Use the remaining length of wire to make the handle of the hanging solar light. Thread the wire through the loop and secure each side.
Portable Power for Electronics

I love this handy inverter from Ryobi! I can charge my phone or even plug in my glue gun without an extension cord!

Remove the solar light stake, add a dab of hot glue to the rim of the ribbed candle holder, and insert the solar light. Don’t forget to remove the orange tag from the solar light.
Hang Solar Lights on a Small Shepherd’s Hook

The $$$ Tree solar light fits perfectly in the ribbed candle holder. (I tested it before I left the store) The solar light is hanging on a one-dollar shepherd’s hook from the same store. So, the light is $2, but if you want to hang it on a shepherd’s hook, it will set you back a whopping three bucks!

I really think you should pin this so you won’t forget, plus you’ll be showing your friends how cool you are!

Small Solar Light Lanterns for Deck

Look how cute the hanging solar lights look as lanterns on the porch steps! Solar lights have undergone significant changes over the years. These provide a good amount of light and illuminate the steps. Wouldn’t these small lanterns be perfect for parties, events, and even a wedding? If your venue is indoors, charge the lights in the sun and place a decorative piece of paper over the solar panel to encourage the lights to turn on indoors.
You may love looking at these floor lamps and solar lights and Easy Reclaimed Timber Landscape Solar Light.
Now, let’s look at the other great projects submitted this month from my creative blogging friends!
Clever Dollar Store Hacks
- Zinc Look Locker Baskets The Kim Six Fix
- Painted Book Stacks Refresh Restyle
- Hanging Solar Lights | Small Lanterns My Repurposed Life
- DIY Hand Lettered Flip Flops One Project Closer
- Colorful Snarky “No Soliciting” Sign The DIY Village
The lights look so nice at night.
ohhh, I totally agree. I packed them up and took them camping with me this past weekend. What a fun addition to our campsite!
thanks for stopping by and taking the time to leave a comment Lisa!
gail
Love this idea!!!
Hugs,
Deb
Thanks so much hosting each week!!
Hugs,
Debbie
Oh, SO inspiring! Wouldn’t these be gorgeous done with a sea-glass spray??? Pinned to two boards!
Ohhh, that’s a fabulous idea! 🙂 Thanks for pinning!!!
gail