How to Hang Patio Lanterns

Patio lanterns can be found at most hardware and home improvement stores in a variety of styles. Paper lanterns, string lanterns and novelty holiday lights are the most common. Knowing how to properly hang patio lanterns can make the difference in having not only solid evening lighting, but also the effect that only patio lanterns can give.

Patio lanterns come in a variety of styles. Two popular styles are the hanging paper lanterns and hanging all-weather lanterns. If you choose to host a lot of patio events, such as cookouts and evening pool parties, then hanging all weather lanterns with an Asian design may be a good choice. Hanging these lanterns is easy, once you know how.

Things you will need to hang patio lanterns:

• Patio light clips


• Hanging lanterns


• Measuring tape


• Carpentry pencil

Step 1- Purchase lanterns with attached hooks. These hooks can be simple circular pieces of metal or hanging hooks that would normally hang on a chain. Having attached hooks on the lanterns will make the hanging process much easier and will keep the lantern in place, during strong breezes.

Step 2- Measure the area where you want to place the lanterns. Mark off with a carpentry pencil where you would like to place the lanterns. A good even range for placing lanterns is one every 6 to 8 inches, depending on the size of the lanterns. If the lanterns are larger, then one every foot would be a better option.

Step 3- Attach the patio light clips at the marked off points. Patio light clips come in different styles. You will want to make sure that you purchase the style of clip that fits the style of lantern hook. Remember that you want to be able to hang the lantern directly from the clip. If you plan on hanging the lanterns often, then you may want to consider permanent patio light clips.  If the lanterns will only be seasonal, then a temporary clip that can be easily removed at the end of the season would be a better option.

Step 4- Hang the lanterns from the patio light clips. Depending on the style of lantern hook and patio light clip, you should be able to just hang the lantern directly on the clip. Some clips will have the option of placing the hook over the clip, while others will off the option of placing the hook inside the teeth of the clip. Use the method that fits the styles of lantern and clip you have chosen.