How to wire the LEDs?

I would buy different intensity LEDs for different brightnesses they sell them everywhere. Use a 220 ohm resistor in series with the each LED. That is what most call for. Usually the each have a .7 to 1 volt drop for each LED. So figure 15 volts or use two 9 volt batteries in series and you should be good. When buying the LEDs they will have a recommended simple circuit for their product if you search for it. They also make incandescent christmas lights you can put a dimmer on and just plug in.