Handmade DIY bird feeders are an exciting upcycling project, that allow you to spend time in the garden as well as help our feathered friends thrive. You can buy a huge variety of bird feeders in all different shapes and styles but transforming teatime and everyday home items into new garden treasures is the perfect way to get creative. So, why not make the birds feel totally at home with a customised feeder to give nature a helping hand. We’ve picked a couple of our favourites, so grab your glue gun and let’s get crafting.
Tin Can Flower Bird Feeder
Perfect to add a bit of colour and get the kids involved.
What you’ll need: Clean, opened tin can with labels removed, paint, pre-cut foam flowers (6 inch wide), large wooden or plastic beads, thick twine, drill or metal punch, glue gun, scissors, marker pen and pencil.
Top Tip: Pre-cut foam flowers are available in most craft shops.
Step 1: On the side of the tin can, use a ruler to measure ¼ inch from each end (in a straight line), mark with a dot using a marker pen. Use the drill or metal punch to make small holes where the dots are.
Step 2: Paint the tin cans in colours of your choice. You may need more than one coat to get full and even coverage. Set aside to dry for 24 hours.
Step 3: Put the open-end of the can in the centre of the foam flower. Trace around the tin to draw a circle. Draw another circle inside the first circle about ½ inch in. You should now have 2 circles (one large and one smaller one). Next cut out the smaller circle, so you’re left with only the larger circle, ½ inch wide. Now cut straight lines along the circle to form tabs.
Step 4: Go around the larger circle line on the foam flower with a line of glue, using the glue gun. Hold the open end of the can on the glue ring and press down firmly until the glue dries.
Step 5: Next glue each of the tabs down inside the can using the glue gun to firmly secure the flower in place and allow to dry. Ensure the entire opening of the can is covered with the foam to make sure the can will not harm the birds.
Step 6: To create the bird feeder hanger, cut 12–18-inch piece of twine. Thread the twine through one hole, inside the can and through the other. Next thread the beads on each end of the twine and knot the twine to secure. Leave enough twine without beads to hang from your chosen tree or branches.
Teacup Feeder
Easy to do, and adds a bit of country charm to your garden.
What you’ll need: Teacup and saucer, strong all-purpose glue, twine or something to hang the feeder, masking tape (optional) and bird food.
Step 1: Turn the teacup on its side, with the handle facing upwards. Glue the teacup to one half of the saucer and allow to dry. Use strips of masking tape to hold in place whilst it dries.
Top Tip: Paint your teacup and saucer for a more decorative impact. Leave to fully dry.
Step 2: Tie the twine to the handle and hang.
Step 3: Finally fill with your chosen bird food, such as bird seeds, peanuts or sunflower hearts.
More upcycling and craft ideas to help unleash your creativity:
How To: Upcycling Ideas For The Garden
How To: Upcycle Old Garden Pots
How To: Candle Making