Turn Broomsticks And Pencil Holders Into A Creative Way To Light Up Your Yard

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Looking for a creative way to light up your yard? From DIYs that light up your patio at night to budget-friendly patio lighting ideas that work with any style, there are plenty of ways to brighten your outdoor space. For another creative solution, try this simple DIY project to add some light to your yard. Attach a metal pencil holder to the top of a broomstick, add a homemade candle, and you'll have a beautiful torch-like light fixture that's sure to steal the show in your yard.

For each light, you'll need a wooden broomstick, a black metal pencil holder (like this pack of Mesh Pencil Cup Holders from QYH), a small glass baby food jar, wax, wicks, black spray paint (try this Spray Paint from Rust-Oleum), a screw, a mallet, and a drill. If you want to make more than one light, you'll need more supplies. For example six lights will require six broomsticks, pencil cup holders, baby food jars, wicks, and so on. Once you've gathered everything you're ready to get started on this creative lighting project.

Start by taking apart your broomstick so you're left with just the handle. Spray paint it black and let it dry completely. Then, use a mallet to pound the handle into the ground. Attach the metal pencil cup holder to the top of the handle with a drill and screw, making sure it is centered. Next, it's time to make your homemade candle. Empty the baby food from the jar, wash it thoroughly, and remove any labels before using it. Melt some wax melts, secure a wick to the bottom of your jar, and then carefully pour in the melted wax to the jar. Use a stick or clothespin to keep the wick standing upright while the wax sets. Let the wax set completely before trimming the wick. Depending  on what type of wax you use, such as soy or beeswax, this can take anywhere from one to six hours. Finally, place your candle in the pencil holder on the broomstick, and you're all done.

If the modern, sleek vibe of a black torch light doesn't go with your outdoor decor, you can paint your lights any color you like. Spray paint the pencil holder to match as well, just be sure to use a paint that works well on both metal and wood (like this Ultra Cover Spray Paint from Rust-Oleum). Alternatively, you could use a wood stain to keep the broomstick a more natural color and keep the black pencil holder on top. If candle-making isn't your thing (or you'd rather save your melted wax for a DIY succulent candle instead), consider using battery powered tea lights as an alternative (these Outdoor Tea Lights from Homemory are waterproof and solar powered).