She Snagged Some Cheap Bins from the Dollar Store, and You Won't Believe How They Light Up Her Garden

There’s a kind of magic when a creative spark meets a simple idea—and sometimes that magic happens with a few cheap Dollar Store bins, some LED lights, and a bit of imagination.

If you’ve ever dreamed of transforming your outdoor space without breaking the bank, you’re about to discover a genius DIY project that can light up your garden beautifully, easily, and affordably. This project is perfect for beginners, gardeners, decorators, or anyone wanting a charming glow for summer nights, parties, or just a cozy backyard retreat.

Today, I’m sharing the full “recipe” to create these dazzling garden lights with cheap bins from the Dollar Store. The result? Twinkling illumination, an enchanted vibe, and a sense of accomplishment that comes from making something unique with your own hands.

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Why Dollar Store Bins?

Before diving in, let’s answer a simple question: Why use Dollar Store bins?

• Cost-effective: At just $1 or $2 each, they’re a fraction of the price of most outdoor lighting fixtures.

• Versatile: They come in various sizes, colors, and materials that are perfect for repurposing.

• Durable: Many bins are made from sturdy plastic that holds up well outside.

• Easy to customize: The smooth surface means you can drill, paint, or decorate them however you want.

You’re not just buying a bin; you’re buying a canvas for creativity.

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What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Your Garden Glow

Gather these materials to get started:

Essential Supplies:

• Dollar Store plastic bins (quantity depends on your garden size; medium-sized clear or white bins work best)

• Battery-powered LED fairy lights or solar-powered LED string lights

• Drill or sharp awl (for making holes)

• Craft knife or box cutter

• Spray paint (optional, for color customization)

• Decorative elements (optional): glitter, stencils, adhesive gems, waterproof stickers

• Twine, wire, or zip ties (for hanging or securing)

• Sandpaper (optional, to roughen plastic for better paint adhesion)

• Clear waterproof sealant spray (optional)

Tools & Extras:

• Gloves (to protect your hands)

• Protective eyewear (when drilling)

• Work surface (old newspaper or tarp)

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Step 1: Choose and Prepare Your Bins

Start by selecting bins that fit your garden’s style:

• Clear bins allow maximum light diffusion, creating a soft glow.

• White or pastel bins can be spray-painted for a custom look.

• Colored bins add their own tint but might reduce light brightness.

If you want to paint your bins, lightly sand the surface for better adhesion. Spray in thin, even coats outdoors or in a ventilated area. Let dry fully before moving on.

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Step 2: Create Light Vents – Drill or Cut Holes

Here’s where the magic begins. You want your bins to glow, so you need to make holes or patterns that let light out.

• Use your drill or awl to punch holes all over the bin’s surface.

• Get creative: make shapes (stars, moons), geometric patterns, or random clusters.

• For a quicker method, use the craft knife to cut out simple shapes or slits.

Tip: If you want a softer glow, make smaller holes closely spaced. For a dramatic effect, larger holes or shapes work better.

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Step 3: Insert the Lights

Depending on your lights:

• Battery-powered LED fairy lights: Coil the light string inside the bin. Hide the battery pack at the bottom or tape it discreetly outside.

• Solar-powered string lights: Place the solar panel outside where it can get sun; feed the string through a hole or leave it hanging from the bin edge.

Test the lights to make sure everything works before finalizing.

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Step 4: Secure and Position

If you want your bins to stand on the ground, place them strategically along pathways, garden beds, or near seating areas.

For hanging lights:

• Punch two holes opposite each other near the bin’s top edge.

• Thread twine or wire through and create loops to hang the bins from tree branches, hooks, or pergolas.

• Use zip ties for extra security if hanging in windy spots.

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Step 5: Add Decorative Touches (Optional)

This is your chance to personalize:

• Paint designs or stencils over the holes.

• Add adhesive gems or waterproof stickers around the bin.

• Sprinkle glitter inside for sparkle.

• Use ribbon or fabric to create skirts or bows on the bin edges.

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Step 6: Seal and Protect (Optional)

To extend the life of your creation:

• Spray the bin lightly with waterproof sealant.

• Avoid submerging the bins in water or leaving them out in heavy rain unless sealed well.

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Step 7: Enjoy Your Illuminated Garden!

Switch on your lights as dusk falls and watch your garden transform into a magical wonderland. The light through the patterns creates beautiful shadows on nearby surfaces, perfect for relaxing evenings or garden parties.

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Tips & Tricks for Success

• Batteries: Choose rechargeable batteries for environmental friendliness.

• Light colors: Warm white LEDs give cozy ambiance; colored LEDs add fun vibes.

• Spacing: Place bins evenly along paths for safety and aesthetics.

• Weather: Bring bins indoors during harsh weather for longevity.

• Upcycling: Reuse old bins from home to save even more money.

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Variations & Creative Ideas

• Mason Jar Insert: Place the lit bin inside a larger glass jar for layered effect.

• Hanging Lantern Cluster: Hang multiple lit bins at varying heights for a stunning display.

• Plant Holder Combo: Use the bin to hold small potted plants along with lights.

• Seasonal Themes: Use red and green lights for Christmas, orange for Halloween, pastels for spring.

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Inspiration: Real-Life Transformations

One gardener shared how she placed five bins lit with soft white LEDs along her garden pathway. Visitors said it felt like walking through a fairy tale. Another user painted her bins in turquoise and coral and hung them from a pergola, creating a beachy glow perfect for summer nights.

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Conclusion: The Magic of Simple Creativity

Transforming cheap Dollar Store bins into garden lights is a perfect example of how creativity, a few supplies, and some time can completely change a space. This project is budget-friendly, easy to make, and highly customizable—proving that lighting your garden beautifully doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.

So next time you’re at the Dollar Store, grab some bins and start crafting your own garden magic.