Building a wooden bird feeder is a rewarding and simple woodworking project that allows you to create a functional, natural addition to your garden or backyard. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build your own wooden bird feeder.
Materials Required:
- 1-2 wooden boards (cedar, pine, or another outdoor-friendly wood)
- Wood screws or nails
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Drill
- Saw (circular saw, jigsaw, or handsaw)
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Hammer or screwdriver
- Clear exterior wood finish or sealant
- String or a chain (optional for hanging)
- Bird seed
Step 1: Plan the Design
The first step is to plan the design of your bird feeder. You can choose from several types, such as a simple tray-style feeder, a box feeder, or a tube feeder. For beginners, a simple tray or a roofed box style is easiest to build and works well for most types of birds.
Basic dimensions for a simple tray feeder:
- Length: 12 inches
- Width: 12 inches
- Height: 4 inches (with optional roof)
Basic dimensions for a box feeder:
- Length: 8-10 inches
- Width: 8-10 inches
- Height: 6-8 inches
- Roof: Slightly larger than the base (to protect the birds from rain)
Step 2: Cut the Wood
Once you have your design, it’s time to cut the wood. Depending on the design you have chosen, you’ll need pieces for the bottom, four sides (or a roof for the box style), and any additional parts such as a perch or roof overhang.
For a basic tray feeder:
- Cut a square or rectangular piece for the base (12×12 inches).
- Cut four smaller pieces for the sides (2-3 inches high, matching the length and width of the base).
For a box-style feeder:
- Cut a base piece (8-10 inches square).
- Cut four side pieces (matching the height and length/width of the base).
- Cut a roof piece slightly larger than the box for extra protection from the elements.
Step 3: Assemble the Sides
Start assembling the sides of the feeder. Apply wood glue to the edges of the side pieces and attach them to the base piece. Make sure the pieces are square by checking the angles with a carpenter’s square.
- For a tray feeder, simply attach the four sides around the base.
- For a box feeder, attach the four sides vertically to the base.
Use wood screws or nails to secure the sides firmly in place. You can drill small pilot holes to prevent splitting the wood when driving in the screws.
Step 4: Add the Roof (if using)
If you’re building a box-style feeder with a roof, this is the time to attach it. The roof will sit slightly overhang the sides to keep rain out of the feeding area. Secure the roof with screws or nails along the edges.
If using a tray-style feeder, you can skip this step or add a small roof for additional protection.
Step 5: Sand the Edges
Use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges and surfaces. Sanding the wood is essential not only for aesthetics but also for the safety of the birds. You don’t want any splinters that could harm the birds.
Step 6: Apply a Finish
To protect your bird feeder from the elements, apply a clear exterior wood finish or sealant. This will help the wood withstand rain and sun without rotting. Avoid using paint with harmful chemicals that may harm the birds.
Apply the finish according to the manufacturer’s instructions and allow it to dry completely before moving to the next step.
Step 7: Add Perches (Optional)
Some bird feeder designs benefit from the addition of small perches. These can be made from small dowels, twigs, or wooden pegs.
Drill small holes in the sides of the feeder and insert the perches, securing them with glue or screws. Perches allow birds to rest and feed comfortably.
Step 8: Mount or Hang the Feeder
Once the feeder is complete and dry, it’s time to mount or hang it. If you want to hang it, attach a length of strong string, a chain, or a metal hook to the top of the feeder. Make sure the mounting point is secure enough to hold the weight of the feeder.
For a ground-based feeder, use four legs made from thick wooden dowels or branches to raise the feeder off the ground.
Step 9: Fill the Feeder with Seed
Finally, fill the bird feeder with your preferred bird seed. You can use a variety of seeds, including sunflower seeds, millet, or a mix designed for different types of birds.
Tips:
- Placement: Hang your bird feeder in a safe location, away from predators like cats. It should be at least 5 feet off the ground and preferably near some shrubs or trees that birds can hide in.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the bird feeder regularly to prevent mold, bacteria, and spoiled food.
- Attracting Birds: To attract a wide range of birds, use a variety of seeds and keep the feeder well-stocked.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a charming, functional bird feeder that attracts birds to your garden while enhancing your outdoor space.
If you’re interested in expanding your woodworking skills, consider checking out Ted’s Woodworking Course, which provides detailed plans and instructions for hundreds of woodworking projects. Explore Ted’s Woodworking Course here.