Use Old Egg Cartons For A Savvy DIY That Lights Up Your Yard

If you're obsessed with protein (as most of America seems to be) and favor eggs as a source, then you're likely harboring some serious craft potential right in your refrigerator. Instead of throwing out old egg cartons, use them for genius DIY ideas, such as creating whimsical decor accents to upgrade your string lights. Specifically, use them to create DIY firefly accents that you can glue above each bulb. As seen on @woodlandwhimsystudio's Instagram feed, it will have you reveling in the nostalgia of summer campfires and starry nights with DIY firefly lights.

The supplies are minimal and likely already sitting in your closet if you're an occasional crafter. You'll need an egg carton made from molded pulp (plastic and foam containers will not work), acrylic or tempera paint, markers, a hot glue gun and glue sticks, and a strand of lights. With this simple list, you'll be able to create a sparkle of fireflies to light up a garden nook, covered deck area, or even indoor space — all the while disguising the fact that this dreamy craft came from your refrigerator.

First, paint the carton with acrylic or tempera paint, if needed, using a spray for the quickest results. Don't use watercolor, since the highly absorbent pulp of the egg carton will become mushy when wet.

Once the paint has dried, cut out the cone-shaped sections of the carton. Each cone will give you two pairs of wings. Additional body parts to cut out include the head (created with the circle at the bottom of each "well" of the carton) and antennae (made with 1.5-inch slivers from spare parts of the carton). Decorate the body parts before connecting them to each other with hot glue. Next, affix the underside of the body to the bulb casing. When choosing lights, there's a reason why LEDs are better than regular (incandescent) bulbs, namely their energy efficiency and ability to stay cool to the touch. If you don't like the look of the C7 bulb protruding from the firefly, use mini Christmas lights instead for a cozy, romantic glow.

Don't limit yourself to fireflies, either. If you prefer butterflies, cut out a narrow oval for the insect's abdomen and head, and then fan the wings outward on each side of the body. Do the same for dragonflies or bees. Also consider interspersing flowers with insects for more outdoor whimsy. Regardless of your design, you'll want to keep them hung beneath a covered, dry area if you place them outside.