This project is designed and presented by Specific Love Creations, who has a knack for crafting beautiful outdoor projects.
With a few basic tools and a bit of creativity, you can attract a variety of birds to your yard. So, let’s dive into the steps required to build your very own bird feeder!
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before starting your bird feeder project, you’ll need to gather your materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
- One cedar fence picket
- Wood glue (Type III waterproof glue recommended)
- Brad nailer or finishing nails
- Miter saw
- Clamps
- Pencil for marking
Having these materials ready will ensure a smoother building process. If you don’t have a cedar fence picket, you can find one at your local hardware store.
Step 2: Cut the Base
Start by cutting the base of your bird feeder. Measure out about eight and a half inches and mark it. Use your saw to make a clean cut. This will serve as the foundation for your feeder.
Step 3: Create the Side Walls
Next, you will need to cut out the side walls. Measure and cut two pieces that are approximately seven inches long. These will be the taller sides of your feeder. To ensure a snug fit, cut a twenty-degree angle on each top edge of the side pieces.
Step 4: Cut the Shorter Walls
For the shorter walls, cut two additional pieces that are more narrow than the first. Measure roughly three-quarters of an inch from the bottom, and cut these pieces to be about five inches tall and four and a quarter inches wide.
Step 5: Fit the Walls Together
Once you have all your walls cut, do a quick test fit. You should notice a small gap between the side walls. This gap will allow for ventilation and ensure that the roof fits properly without intersecting the side pieces. It’s better to have a slight gap than to have pieces that are too long.
Step 6: Cut the Roof Pieces
Next, measure and cut the roof pieces. You will need two pieces that are about eight inches wide. Just like the side walls, cut a twenty-degree angle on the edges of the roof pieces for a perfect fit.
Step 7: Assemble the Walls
Now it’s time to attach the walls together. Decide on the width of your feeder; a wider design allows for more birdseed. Apply glue to the edges and clamp them together. For additional strength, use a brad nailer to secure the pieces in place.
Step 8: Attach the Main Section to the Base
With the walls secured, flip the structure upside down. Apply glue to the base and attach the main section using brad nails. Make sure to mark the sides to ensure proper alignment.
Step 9: Add the Borders
To keep birdseed from falling out, create a border around the sides. These should be around an inch tall. Cut and fit these borders, ensuring they are slightly longer than needed. Remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect; it just needs to be functional.
Step 10: Attach the Roof
Next, it’s time to attach the roof. Secure one side with glue and brad nails. For the other side, add hinges so that it can flex up and down. Make sure everything is centered and symmetrical for aesthetic appeal.
Step 11: Final Touches
Your bird feeder is almost complete! You can consider adding some copper flashing to the roof for a stylish look. However, if you prefer a natural wood aesthetic, you can leave it as is. If you plan to mount the feeder, ensure you have the necessary hardware, like a flange and long pipe, to secure it in place.
Step 12: Installation
Decide where you want to place your bird feeder. If you’re mounting it from the bottom, you’ll need a four flange and some long pipe. Bury part of the pipe into the ground and attach the flange securely with screws. If you’re hanging it, use galvanized wire to secure it from side to side.
Conclusion
And there you have it—a beautiful, functional bird feeder made from a single cedar board!
This project not only enhances your garden but also provides a welcoming space for birds. Remember, every time you see a bird enjoying your feeder, it’s a testament to your hard work and creativity.
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