Slice pool noodles into rings and wrap them with string lights. You’ll see why everyone’s obsessed with this one.Check the first comment 👇

 

Why Pool Noodle Ring Lights Are So Popular

Before we get into the how-to, it’s worth understanding why this craft exploded online.

 

✔ Cheap

Pool noodles cost $1–$3 each. One noodle easily yields multiple rings.

 

✔ Incredibly lightweight

You can hang them anywhere — walls, ceilings, trees — without nails or tools.

 

✔ Shockingly high-end appearance

Wrap with lights and suddenly it looks like an illuminated installation from Etsy or a boutique.

 

✔ Customizable beyond belief

Shape, thickness, colors, lights, textures — the options are endless.

 

✔ Easy for all skill levels

If you can slice a noodle and wrap a cord, you can do this.Noodle art supplies

 

✔ Seasonal or year-round

Use white lights for elegance, multi-color for fun, warm light for coziness, and more.

 

✔ Safe when done correctly

LED string lights stay cool, making them compatible with foam materials.And that brings us to the project itself…

 

MATERIALS YOU’LL NEED

(Don’t worry — it’s short and cheap.)

 

Pool noodles — any color

 

LED string lights (battery, USB, or plug-in)

 

A sharp craft knife or bread knife

 

Clear tape, zip ties, or hot glue

 

Optional extras:

 

ribbon

 

faux flowers

 

greenery garlands

 

spray paint

 

twine or rope

 

Command hooksglitter

 

fabric scraps

 

decorative mesh

 

You probably already have half of this lying around.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Pool Noodle Light Rings

STEP 1: Choose Your Noodles

Classic noodles work perfectly, but you can also use:

 

jumbo noodles for bold statement pieces

 

skinny noodles for delicate rings

 

textured noodles for fun patterns

 

Choose colors that coordinate with your décor, unless you plan to cover or paint them.

 

STEP 2: Slice Into Rings

Using a craft or kitchen knife:

 

Cut the noodle into 1–3 inch thick slices.

 

Keep thickness consistent for a symmetrical look.

 

Don’t squeeze the noodle while cutting — it dents.

Let the knife do the work.You’ll end up with soft foam “donuts” that stack easily.

 

STEP 3: Shape the Rings

Most rings will be slightly oval from being cut. To shape them:

 

Squeeze gently around the edges until perfectly round.

 

For large loops, cut a slit in the noodle and re-tape into a circle.

 

Pool noodles are extremely forgiving.

 

STEP 4: Wrap With String Lights

This is the magic step.

Start at one edge of the ring and wrap the lights around it like a spiral. Keep it snug but not tight. You can:

 

leave spaces for a star-like effect

 

wrap tightly for a bright glow

 

crisscross for patterns

 

Secure the ends with clear tape, small zip ties, or hot glue (low-temp only).

 

STEP 5: Add Decorative Touches (Optional)

This is where creativity takes over.

Slice pool noodles into rings and wrap them with string lights. You’ll see why everyone’s obsessed with this one.