Top 6 Tools to Help Make Installing Your Christmas Lights Easier

It's that time of year again! Time to deck the halls with boughs of holly and, of course, Christmas lights. But let's be honest, installing those twinkling lights can be a real pain in the tinsel. Fear not, my festive friends! Here are the top 6 tools to help make installing your Christmas lights easier.

1. Dykes/Cutters/Snips 

No, not the insult you used to throw at your annoying little brother. We're talking about diagonal cutting pliers, also known as dykes or simply "cutters". These handy tools are perfect for cutting wires, splitting wire prior to installing a slide on plug and more - like snipping the edges off a polarized male plug so that it fits into a non polarized female plug. They're also great for cutting zip ties, which we'll get to in a minute. With a good pair of dykes, you'll be able to tackle any wiring issue that comes your way.

2. Pocket Knife/Blade

A pocket knife is a must-have tool for any DIY project, including installing Christmas lights. Use it to strip wires, cut rope, and remove those annoying white tags from LED Christmas light strings (trust us, removing those tags will make your installation look tons better!). It's also great for opening that pesky plastic blister pack packaging that seems to come with everything these days. Just make sure to keep the knife away from the kids!

3. Christmas Light Clips

Gone are the days of using nails or staples to hang your Christmas lights. Christmas light clips are a game-changer when it comes to holiday decorating. They're easy to use and won't damage your roof or siding. Plus, they come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit any type of light strand and for attaching lights to any type of structure. Say goodbye to the frustration of trying to hammer a nail or screw a hook into frozen wood and hello to stress-free decorating.

4. Work Belt

A work belt may not seem like an essential tool for installing Christmas lights, but trust us, it makes a huge difference. With a work belt, you can keep all your tools within reach and avoid constantly climbing up and down the ladder. Plus, the best use is as a holster for a stash of male and female plugs and their slide on caps! We keep male plugs in one pocket, female plugs in another pocket and slide on caps in a third. Even a simple one will do. You'll wonder how you ever decorated without  a work belt!

5. Zip Ties

Zip ties are a lifesaver when it comes to organizing your wires and keeping them in place. Use them to secure your light strands to trees and bushes, or to bundle up excess wire. They're also great for attaching chase controllers to frames, attaching light strings to tree frames and have about 100 million or more other uses. Zip ties are an indisputable, indispensable tool of pro installers.

6. Extension Cords

Last but not least, extension cords are a must-have tool for any outdoor decorating project. Make sure to choose cords that are rated for outdoor use and are long enough to reach your desired location. Or use SPT wireand slide on plugs to make your own custom fit cords for your installation. not only does this provide you with a super clean looking finished project, but they are typically lighter weight and take up less storage room that store bought premade extension cords. With the right extension cords, you'll be able to light up your entire yard without any hassle.

With the right tools, installing your Christmas lights can be a fun and stress-free experience. From cutters to extension cords, make sure to stock up on these essential tools before you start decorating. Happy holidays!

Shop for all of your Christmas lights and installation accessories a The Christmas Light Emporium.