Turn an ordinary pool noodle into a fun glowing decoration with this simple DIY string-light project. Learn how to make colorful illuminated rings, what materials you need, and important safety tips.
Slice Pool Noodles Into Rings and Wrap Them With String Lights—You’ll See Why Everyone’s Obsessed!
If you have an old pool noodle sitting around after summer, don’t throw it away just yet. With a few simple cuts and a strand of string lights, you can turn it into a colorful glowing decoration that looks surprisingly impressive at night.
This DIY project is inexpensive, easy to customize, and doesn’t require complicated tools or crafting skills.
✨ What You’ll Need
- 1 pool noodle
- Battery-operated or properly rated outdoor string lights
- A sharp utility knife or craft knife
- Scissors
- String, twine, or thin decorative cord
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Optional: colorful pool noodles for different effects
Step 1: Cut the Pool Noodle Into Rings
Place the pool noodle on a stable surface and carefully cut it into several sections.
Aim for rings roughly 1–2 inches thick, depending on the look you want.
The thicker the rings, the more substantial your finished decorations will look.
Safety tip: Because pool noodles can compress while you’re cutting them, use a sharp blade and work slowly. Keep your fingers away from the cutting path.
Step 2: Prepare the String Lights
For this project, battery-powered LED string lights are generally the easiest option because you don’t have to run an extension cord to every decoration.
Choose small LED lights that don’t become hot during operation.
If you’re using the decorations outdoors, make sure the lights and their power source are specifically rated for outdoor use.
Step 3: Wrap the Rings
Take one pool-noodle ring and begin wrapping the string lights around it.
You don’t need to cover every inch. Leaving small gaps between the lights allows the glow to spread through the foam and creates a softer appearance.
Secure the light strand with small pieces of string or another suitable fastening method if necessary.
Step 4: Add String for Hanging
Once the lights are secured, attach a piece of strong string or cord to the ring.
You can then hang the glowing rings from:
- A covered patio
- A pergola
- A tree branch
- A garden structure
- A party backdrop
- A fence
- An outdoor seating area
For a party, several rings hung at different heights can create a playful floating-light effect.
🌈 Make Them Even More Fun
The beauty of this project is that you don’t have to stick with one design.
Try using different colored pool noodles and alternating them throughout the display.
You can also experiment with:
- Warm-white lights for a cozy atmosphere
- Multicolor LEDs for parties
- Different ring sizes
- Multiple rings connected together
- Decorative ribbon around the foam
- Different hanging heights
For birthdays, outdoor gatherings, or summer parties, bright multicolor lights can make the decorations especially eye-catching.
Why Does the Pool Noodle Work So Well?
Pool noodles are made from lightweight, flexible foam. When the lights are wrapped around or positioned through the foam, the material can help diffuse the light, making the individual bulbs appear softer and more decorative.
The circular shape also gives you an instant decorative form without having to build a complicated frame.
And because pool noodles are inexpensive, you can make several without spending much money.
⚠️ Important Safety Warning
This is especially important if you’re planning to use these decorations near a swimming pool.
A pool noodle may be made for use around water, but ordinary electrical string lights are not automatically safe around pools.
Never place electrical lights, plugs, extension cords, or power supplies where they could fall into the water or be touched by someone in the pool.
For outdoor use, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use appropriately rated equipment. Battery-powered, low-voltage LED options can simplify the setup, but they still need to be used according to their safety instructions.
Also, don’t leave illuminated decorations unattended for extended periods.
A Clever Way to Reuse Old Pool Noodles
What makes this DIY particularly appealing is that it gives an old pool noodle a completely different purpose.
Instead of ending up in storage—or eventually in the trash—you can turn it into bright, colorful outdoor décor with just a few inexpensive supplies.
The finished rings can look especially magical after sunset when several are grouped together at different heights.
Sometimes the simplest DIY ideas really are the most impressive—and this one proves that an ordinary pool noodle can become something surprisingly beautiful.