This project is by Ryan Willoughby of The Will To Make. This DIY project is not only a fun way to attract squirrels but also provides a charming addition to your backyard.
In this guide, we will walk through the process of creating a picnic table squirrel feeder using leftover fence pickets.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials and Tools
Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary materials and tools. For this project, you will need:
- Fence pickets (scrap wood)
- Wood glue
- Brad nails
- Tools: Miter saw, speed square, tape measure, air nailer, and compressor
Make sure to have safety gear on hand, including goggles and gloves.
Step 2: Cutting the Wood
The first step in building your picnic table squirrel feeder is cutting the wood to size. Start with two fence pickets:
- One piece should be cut down to six inches for the top.
- The second piece should be cut to eight inches for the back piece.
Next, cut a longer piece into strips for the stretchers, seats, and legs. Begin by cutting one side off both pieces to create a clean edge.
Once you have a clean edge, cut the six-inch piece down to four and a half inches wide and the eight-inch piece to two and a half inches wide.
Step 3: Creating the Strips
Now, you need to make a couple of strips. Start by getting a clean edge and cutting two strips at one inch wide and one strip at half an inch wide. At the miter saw, cut the one-inch strip down to two six-inch pieces and the half-inch piece down to two six-inch pieces.
Step 4: Cutting the Legs
Next, cut the four legs for your squirrel feeder. Each leg needs to have parallel angles on each side. Cut roughly a 26-degree angle on one side, then slide the piece down to where you used a piece of tape as a mark and cut the other angle.
Repeat this process to cut the second, third, and fourth pieces. With all your pieces cut, it’s time for assembly.
Step 5: Assembling the Legs and Stretchers
Start by attaching the stretchers to the legs. Lay two legs up against a straight edge and space them out half an inch apart. Measure down two inches on each leg; this is where the top of the stretcher will sit.
Apply some glue and attach the stretcher with brad nails. If your brad nails are a bit long, trim them with diagonal cutters to cut them flush.
Repeat this process for the other set of legs. This will create a sturdy base for your feeder.
Step 6: Attaching the Seats
Next, it’s time to attach the seats. Mark on each side of the bench a half inch in where they should hang past the legs. Once marked, use glue and brad nails to attach the seats.
Be cautious with hand placement during this step; nails can sometimes shoot out in unexpected directions.
Step 7: Attaching the Top
With the base complete, set the top piece in place and center it. Use glue and brad nails to secure it down. This will create the table surface for your feeder.
Step 8: Adding the Back Piece
Now, nail on the back piece that will attach to the fence. Position it where it looks nice on the table. This back piece provides stability and support for the feeder.
Step 9: Finalizing the Feeder
The next step is to put a screw through the middle of the table to allow for food to be set. After securing it, take your feeder outside.
With a single screw in the back, attach it to the fence securely. This will keep the feeder in place and ensure it doesn’t tip over.
Step 10: Adding Food for the Squirrels
Finally, place a corn cob on the screw in the middle of the table. This will attract squirrels and provide them with a treat.
Conclusion
And with that, your picnic table squirrel feeder is complete! This project is simple yet rewarding, and it adds charm to your backyard while inviting wildlife. Even if you haven’t seen any squirrels on it yet, the joy of creating something functional and fun is worth it