This project was built and designed by Joe Heide from Woodworkers DiyLemma. It’s a simple, effective bird feeder made from a single cedar picket—perfect for beginner woodworkers looking to create something functional and nature-friendly.
The build process is approachable, the materials are affordable, and the result is a sturdy feeder that adds life and charm to any backyard. With basic tools and a little time, this is a great weekend project that teaches core woodworking skills.
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Why Cedar Works Well for Bird Feeders
Cedar is a top choice for outdoor woodworking thanks to its natural resistance to moisture and insects. It holds up well in changing weather and doesn’t require chemical treatment to last through rain or snow.
On top of its durability, cedar also has a warm, pleasant appearance. It weathers gracefully and blends well with garden and outdoor settings, making it a popular choice for projects like this.
Materials and Tools Needed
This project is designed to be both budget-friendly and beginner-accessible. You’ll only need one cedar fence picket for the entire feeder.
Basic tools include a table saw (or circular saw), a miter saw, drill, brad nailer, and some sandpaper. The design doesn’t require any advanced joinery, making it a great entry-level project for new woodworkers.
Cutting the Pieces
Joe begins by breaking down the cedar picket into its component parts. The cuts include the base, side supports, walls, and roof pieces. All of these can be adjusted in size depending on how large you want the feeder to be.
The key is to start with a strong base and then build upward, maintaining symmetry and balance along the way. Measuring twice before cutting helps keep everything aligned and avoid material waste.
Assembling the Base and Side Walls
Once the cuts are made, the next step is attaching the side walls to the base. The walls are centered to ensure an even layout and to give the feeder a stable foundation.
This layout creates a tray-like structure where bird seed can be held securely without spilling. Joe uses brad nails and wood glue to hold the walls in place, creating a quick but strong bond.
Building and Attaching the Roof
The roof is cut with a slight overhang on both sides to help shield the seed from rain and snow. This not only protects the contents but also gives the feeder a more finished, polished look.
To attach the roof, nails are driven in at an angle to avoid blowouts and to hold the pieces firmly in place. The roof also helps prevent water from sitting in the feeder, increasing the life span of both the seed and the wood.
Adding Practical Features
To improve drainage, Joe recommends drilling a few small holes in the base. These help prevent water from pooling and spoiling the bird seed.
A simple perch can also be added using an offcut or small dowel. This gives birds a place to land while they eat and adds functionality without complicating the build.
Hanging the Feeder with Twine
If you prefer a hanging feeder, drilling holes near the top of the structure allows for twine or rope to be attached. Joe loops the twine securely through the roof area to suspend the feeder from a tree branch or pole.
Using natural or outdoor-grade twine helps keep the feeder stable and weather-resistant. It’s also easy to remove and relocate if needed.
Smoothing the Edges and Optional Finish
Once the build is complete, Joe sands all the corners and exposed edges. This ensures that the birds won’t be injured by rough cuts or splinters, and gives the project a more refined look.
A wood finish can be applied, but Joe advises caution—some finishes are not bird-safe. If you decide to finish the feeder, use food-safe oils or leave the cedar natural, which is perfectly fine for outdoor use.
Finding the Right Location
Placement is important if you want birds to visit frequently. Joe suggests hanging or mounting the feeder in a visible but quiet location, ideally near trees or shrubs for quick bird access and safety.
Mounting on a post or suspending from a branch both work well, depending on your yard layout. You’ll likely see birds showing up within days once the feeder is stocked.
A Beginner Project with Great Results
This bird feeder is a small but satisfying project that teaches several foundational woodworking skills. Measuring, cutting, drilling, and assembly are all involved—but kept simple enough for any beginner to follow.
Joe’s method is clear, efficient, and focused on results. The feeder works well, looks great, and is something you can easily make again or gift to others.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Joe’s channel: