Fifty lights to a strand is the classic count for good reason: enough to wrap a wreath, line a window, or light a small tree without a single wasted bulb, which is why it has been the standard strand for generations of decorators. Keep one clear and one multicolor set on hand and most mid-December decorating emergencies solve themselves before dinner. Browse mini clear LED 50-light sets and mini lights on white or green cord in a rainbow of color choices. Every decorator ends up needing one more strand of exactly this; smart ones keep a spare in the decorations box. The color range means matching an existing scheme, or plotting a brand new one, takes minutes. See the full range of mini light sets, or call St. Nick’s at 1-800-875-8865.