Transform your backyard with these eye-catching DIY giant lanterns made from simple white plastic laundry baskets and LED push lights. This project is perfect for adding a warm, inviting glow to outdoor spaces, making your evenings more magical. It's an affordable way to upcycle common household items while creating a unique focal point that will have neighbors asking about your creative flair.
These lanterns can be placed strategically around your backyard or patio to create a warm and cozy atmosphere. Consider placing them near seating areas or pathways to enhance their visual impact. Coordinate with other outdoor decor by using similar warm white lights or adding complementary colors to your garden furniture. The neutral white of the baskets allows them to blend seamlessly with various outdoor styles, from modern to rustic.
Giant DIY Backyard Lanterns

Materials
6 white plastic laundry baskets
3 large warm white LED push lights
20 zip ties (6 inches or longer)
Directions
Stack the 6 white plastic laundry baskets on top of each other, aligning their openings.
Evenly space out the 3 large warm white LED push lights inside the stacked baskets.
Use the zip ties to secure the baskets together by threading them through the pre-existing holes in the basket's plastic weave, ensuring the stack remains stable.
Position the LED lights behind the basket stack, facing outward, and secure them in place with additional zip ties if necessary.
Ensure the lights are positioned to shine through the basket holes, creating a glowing effect.
Place the completed lantern in your desired outdoor location, such as a patio or garden bed.

Variations & Tips
For a more colorful version, consider painting the outside of the laundry baskets with weather-resistant spray paint in a color that complements your outdoor decor. Alternatively, use colored LED lights for a different ambiance. To increase stability, place a heavy stone or weight at the base of the stacked baskets, ensuring it doesn't obstruct the light. You can also experiment with different basket sizes to create varied heights for a more dynamic display.