In this guide, Bob Holmes shares how to build a whimsical birdhouse featuring a curved roof. This project is not only fun but also a great way to enhance your outdoor space. This birdhouse will surely attract feathered friends to your yard.
Materials and Tools Needed
- 2×6 lumber
- Wood glue
- Clamps
- Band saw
- Joiner
- Miter saw
- Pin nailer
- Drill press
- Drill bit (1 and 1/4 inch)
- Hand plane
- Drum sander
- Needle-nose pliers
Step 1: Cutting the Panels
Start by taking a standard 2×6 piece of lumber and cutting it to the desired length for the birdhouse. This length will allow you to create the two faces of the birdhouse. Using the band saw, resaw the lumber into two boards that can be glued together, creating a wider panel.
Step 2: Preparing the Panels
After resawing, clean up the surfaces of the boards using the joiner. This will ensure a smooth edge for gluing. Once the edges are cleaned, apply a good coat of wood glue on both edges and clamp them together until dry. After about 24 hours, remove the clamps and check the glue-up.
Step 3: Designing the Birdhouse Face
Next, lay out the design for the face of the birdhouse. Opt for a symmetrical design that allows for easy cutting. Fold the panel in half and cut it using the miter saw to create the front and back pieces.
Step 4: Assembling the Birdhouse
Using a pin nailer, temporarily attach the two pieces of the front and back panels together before cutting them on the band saw. After cutting, sand the curves smooth using a drum sander. This will enhance the aesthetic and functionality of the birdhouse.
Step 5: Drilling the Entry Hole
Over at the drill press, drill a 1 and 1/4 inch hole for the birdhouse entry. Additionally, drill holes to attach the floor and a support bracket, which will be hidden by the roof.
Step 6: Installing the Floor
Screw in the floor and the upper support bracket that forms the core structure of the house. This is crucial for the overall stability of the birdhouse.
Step 7: Creating the Curved Roof
Move back to the band saw to cut narrow slats for the roof. You may find that the slats need to be thinner to properly follow the contour of the curve. Once cut, start assembling the roof using glue and the pin nailer.
Step 8: Finalizing the Roof
Use a hand plane to ensure a flat surface for laying down the final slat of the roof. After applying some glue, place the last piece in position. If any nails miss their target, use needle-nose pliers to pull them out and make adjustments.
Step 9: Completing the Birdhouse
After ensuring everything is in place, check the weight of the birdhouse. It should weigh around 1 to 2 lbs to attract the most birds. Notably, a perch is intentionally left off, as it may help predators reach the birds.
Conclusion
With its whimsical design and curved roof, this birdhouse is a delightful addition to any garden. Bob Holmes has made this project approachable and enjoyable, encouraging both novice and seasoned woodworkers to create a beautiful home for birds. Give it a try, and enjoy the charm it brings to your outdoor space!