String lights are always associated with the holidays, but what if you use ‘em in April or September? Well, they look just as great, adding a bit of whimsy and fun wherever they’re strung.

Now that every store on Main Street is offering string lights for at least 50% off,  it’s the perfect time for snagging several boxes to keep around all year long.

1. ILLUMINATED HEADBOARD

Better Homes and Gardens

This DIY project from Better Homes and Gardens puts bunched-up string lights into a square frame built from inexpensive lumber. If you’re looking for something with a little less weight, string lights behind a sheer curtain work equally well.

2. HANGING LANTERNS

Treasure Again

As temporary or permanent as you want it to be, this string lights solution from Etsy seller Treasure Again uses mason jars and wire collars for a dreamy effect out of doors.

3. MOOD LIGHTING

Kristina Grosspietsch

This project from BobVila.com’s own Kristina Grosspietsch combines string lights and a recycled wine bottle for some seriously subtle mood lighting.

4. LIGHT-UP LETTERS

Simple Design

Because of their length, you can arrange string lights in whatever shape you please. The example above would work well in a kitchen…

Curbly

… or you could whip up your own custom marquee-style letter light!

5. FOLDED PAPER LANTERNS

Wit and Whistle

You can buy paper lantern string lights at any discount store, but they look like… paper lantern string lights you bought at a discount store. This DIY version may take a little more time, but the results are amazing and would make for a great project to do when you’re, like me today, stuck inside due to a snowstorm.

For more creative DIY project ideas, consider:

5 Things to Do with… Globes
5 Things to Do with… Mason Jars
5 Things to Do with… Vintage Ladders