Christmas lights are a great way to light up the night.It can be difficult to get them out and untangle them, and anyone who sets them up knows that.While setting up your Christmas lights, there are a few things you can do to prevent tangling.
Step 1: Cut a piece of cardboard.
It should be around 12 inches by 6 inches.This is a heavier piece of cardboard than a packing box.When you wrap the lights around them, the cardboard will be too light.
Step 2: A notch can be cut in the cardboard.
It should be large enough to fit one end of the lights into.The method will work either way if the notch is on the length or width side.
Step 3: The lights should be wrapped around the ellipse.
Work from one side to the other as needed.Unwrapping them will be easier next year.
Step 4: Where the other end of the lights is is where you need to cut another notch.
Just like you did with the first one, Tuck the end into this notch.
Step 5: Wrap the tissue paper around the lights.
Wrap a layer of tissue paper around the cardboard to protect the lights.They're in storage and this will help protect them.
Step 6: There is an empty can of Pringles.
If there are crumbs left in the tube, it could attract bugs to your storage area.The cardboard tube from a paper towel roll could be used for this method.The steps will be the same, except you won't be placing a lid on the cardboard tube.
Step 7: The can has a slit in the top of it.
Cut a vertical slit on the top of the can with a pair of heavy scissors.The slit should be at least an inch long.
Step 8: The slit has one end of the lights in it.
If the wire from the lights won't fit, you can widen the slit.
Step 9: Put the lights around the can.
Go back up to the top of the can after working your way down.There is a slit at the top of the can.The lights should be wrapped around the can with both ends resting on top.
Step 10: The Pringles can can be placed on the lid.
This will prevent the ends from slipping out of the slit.
Step 11: The can should be wrapped in tissue paper
Wrap a few layers of tissue paper around the can to protect the lights.If you put the lights in a box with other items, this should be done.
Step 12: Get a small object.
The hook should be on each side of the body.If you don't have hooks, you can still use this method, but it will be easier.
Step 13: One of the hooks should be used to hold the lights in.
You can tie the end to the body of the hanger if you don't have hooks.
Step 14: The lights should be wrapped around the outside of the hanger.
You should gradually work your way to the other side of the hanger.You'll have to do this a few times to get the whole string.
Step 15: The remaining end should be placed into the other hook.
You should leave enough string at the end to reach the last hook.Tuck the end in between the strands of lights if you don't have enough room or hooks.
Step 16: Don't leave the hanger in the store.
You can either put the lights in a box or hang them out of the way until next Christmas.Wrap the hanger in tissue paper if you are storing it with other items.
Step 17: You should get a power cord holder.
Most hardware stores have these.There are many different kinds.A larger one is designed for heavy outdoor electrical cords.
Step 18: Attach the lights to the cord holder.
Make sure you don't break any lights.
Step 19: If you have more lights, plug them in.
Multiple strands of lights can be put into the same place with this method.Plug the new set of lights into the end of the old one and keep winding as long as you have room on the holder.
Step 20: Don't let the lights go out until next year.
You can put the power cord holder on a shelf, in a box, or hang it up.
Step 21: The second light is between your thumb and index finger.
The first and third lights should fall next to each other because of this.
Step 22: Pull the fourth light up and pinch it next to the second one.
The first, third, and fifth lights should be in your hand.
Step 23: The odd and even lights should be matched to the top and bottom of your hand.
The lights should stay in an even pattern if this sequence is kept going.
Step 24: Plug the two sides in after you wrap the rest of the cord around the bunch.
When you're done wrapping, you should have a bunch of lights and two plugs.Wrap the small sections around the plugs to keep them together.Plug them into each other and you're done.