Get the Right Bulbs

S11 and S14 - Globe to Vintage Lights

S11 light bulbs are similar to the shape of globe lights but their curves are slightly more balloon shaped. This makes them ideal hanging upside down and it’s one reason they are so popular on patio strings. Their cousin, the S14, is taller with more elongated sides, which are great for giving lights depth away from the string. The S14 shape is also popular because it carries the vintage Edison-style bulb shape. This is a very popular look on patio string lights. Stylized vintage light bulbs are also popping up more in restaurants, bars and other retail settings.

C7 and C9 - The Best Kept Secret in Lighting

While most people think of C7 and C9 bulbs as Christmas lights only, they amazingly double as patio and party light bulbs year round. Why? During Christmas these bulbs are commonly strung standing straight in the air or wrapped in trees in the case of C7s. This gives them a certain look unique to Christmas and hence their stereotype. But... when you turn them upside down, the real party begins when you realize they lead a fun, secret double life. Just because something is marketed one way doesn't mean you can't use it another! And in this case, here’s one bulb type you can use for everything.

The A Bulbs - Household Bulbs to the Rescue

If you actually prefer the look of a household-style bulb rest assured that bulb types like the A15 and A19 are here for you too. While they may not be as popular for traditional patio string lights they can look good depending on the setting, especially if your stringers are higher off the ground. If you are going for a festive party look, they also look surprisingly dashing in multiple colors.

All About That Base

This is the part of the bulb you can’t see but it’s kind of important -- the base. Luckily there are only three base sizes most commonly used but they are good to know.

• Candelabra (E12) - Common in small household light fixtures, this base size is synonymous with C7 Christmas lights, which have been used for decades.
• Intermediate (E17) - Most popular with C9 bulbs and other decorative globe light bulbs.
• Medium / Standard Base (E26) - the most common household bulb base size.

These base sizes do not mix and match so always be sure to buy the right bulbs for your patio stringers or party lights.

LED vs. Incandescent Bulbs -- Drama, Drama, Drama

Some people love one type and hate the other. It really comes down to preference.

• LED bulbs use up to 90% less energy, they emit almost no heat which means they attract less bugs, and the coloration and light are spectacular.
• Incandescent bulbs are classic, they emit that vintage filament light halo some people love and they usually are less expensive than LED bulbs. Their coloration and light are also fantastic but they require a lot more electricity.

If your project requires many lights but you have limited electrical outlets or don’t want to rewire your house, LED bulbs might be your best option because they require so little electricity. You can use incandescent bulbs for the same project, however you have to be more mindful of what your stringer capacity can handle as well as what your electrical outlet can handle. You can enjoy either bulb type but you’ll have to plan accordingly.

The best thing about the the LED vs. Incandescent debate … is choice.