Scott from Saws on Skates has created a delightful log cabin bird feeder project that makes use of leftover lumber. This project is perfect for anyone looking to add a cozy spot for their feathered friends to enjoy a snack. With Scott’s step-by-step guidance, even beginners can tackle this fun woodworking project.
Materials and Tools Needed
- Leftover cedar wood
- Wood glue (exterior waterproof)
- Brad nails
- Push block
- Trim router with round over bit
- Table saw
- Miter saw
- Craig Multimark
- Clamps
- Screw eyes
- Jute twine
- Drill with drill bits
Step 1: Prepare the Logs
To start building the bird feeder walls, Scott cuts some logs to size using a table saw. He uses a push block for safety while ripping the lumber to width. To give the logs a more cabin-like appearance, he removes sharp edges with a trim router and a round over bit.
Step 2: Create the Bottom
For the bottom of the bird feeder, Scott glues two smaller boards together since he didn’t have a single board wide enough. After trimming the glued boards to the correct length, he ensures a strong glue joint by removing one edge and applying exterior waterproof glue.
Step 3: Assemble the Walls
Using a miter saw, Scott cuts four long logs and twelve short logs to size. He sets up a stop block for consistent cuts. After matching the ends to a rounded profile, he begins to assemble the walls using an air nailer and glue.
Step 4: Build the Layers
Scott constructs multiple layers for the bird feeder. For each layer, he applies glue and centers the logs before securing them with brad nails. He repeats this process for a total of eleven layers to create a sturdy structure.
Step 5: Create the Gables
Next, Scott adjusts the miter saw to cut the gables at a 45-degree angle. He labels the walls and gables to avoid confusion during assembly. Using a scroll saw, he carefully removes waste material from the gables.
Step 6: Attach the Roof
For the roof, Scott glues two smaller boards together, similar to the bottom. He cuts the roof sections to length and attaches them to the gables using brad nails.
Step 7: Add the Hanger
To finish off the bird feeder, Scott measures for the screw eyes and drills pilot holes. He then ties jute twine to the screw eyes for hanging. This charming log cabin bird feeder is now ready to be filled with birdseed!
This log cabin bird feeder is a fantastic project that not only utilizes leftover wood but also provides a cozy place for birds to feast. For those looking to customize their feeder, Scott suggests adding plexiglass to help deter squirrels from stealing the seeds.
For more detailed plans, go here.