When you see the first buds forming on the trees and hear the morning birds chirp, you know spring is on the way! This season, welcome birds of all sizes to your yard with a homemade bird feeder. By making your own feeder, you can choose a design that matches your aesthetic while enjoying the chance to reconnect with nature.
For those who like a polished look, even from DIY, these bird feeders are a great chance to put your project skills to good use. Any of these options will attract various birds while adding elegant whimsy to your garden.
Wine Bottle Bird Feeder
If you have empty wine bottles, this feeder is the perfect way to turn them into an elegant and functional addition to your yard. The construction requires some woodworking ability, but the final product is worth the effort. You won’t have to refill the seed every day; even when you do, it’s a quick process! The best part about this project is that you can choose colors that match your garden décor—you can even decorate the base with designs!
Pro tips:
- If you don’t own the tools needed for the woodcuts, ask the employees at your local hardware store to do it for you! When it’s not busy, they’re usually happy to help.
- If you’re putting the bird feeder in a spot that will get rain, avoid moldy seed by drilling several tiny holes in the bottom of the collection area so the water will drain.
Teacup and Saucer Bird Feeder
This project is perfect for displaying some of your beautiful, but often unused, teacups and saucers. You can also choose this option if you want to put coordinating feeders in several parts of your yard. You won’t need any special woodworking skills for this project, but you will need patience as you balance everything perfectly.
Pro tips:
- If you don’t have any teacups and saucers, head to the thrift store and choose eclectic or coordinating pieces.
- Place these feeders in spots where they won’t get too wet. The glue will hold longer, and you won’t have to worry about moldy seeds.
Flowerpot Pedestal Bird Feeder
Do you have a garden without many good branches for hanging? Make an elegant pedestal bird feeder that can sit on a post, bench, or wall. The terracotta flowerpots will match any garden décor and look professionally made with minimal effort.
Pro tips:
- Choose glazed pots if you want to keep them outside in all seasons. Otherwise, you’ll need to bring untreated clay pots inside during cold weather.
- If you can’t find a terracotta pot with pre-drilled holes for the seeds, make your own using a masonry bit. Soak the pot overnight first to minimize the risk of cracking from the drill.
If you’re a fan of rustic or DIY-looking garden projects, here’s an idea for a bird feeder that uses recycled materials and adds a bit of creative charm to your yard.
Plastic Bottle Bird Feeder
This project is the perfect mix of artistic expression and functionality. You can paint your plastic bottle’s top and bottom halves any way you like. Experiment with different patterns throughout the yard! This bird feeder is also an excellent option for larger birds since you can make the opening any size.
Pro tips:
- Be sure to thoroughly wash your plastic bottles so that no sugary residue is left for the seeds to stick to. Let it air dry overnight before you begin the project.
- Spray a matte or glossy setting coat over the bottle to weatherproof your creation when you’re done painting.
Whether choosing a whimsical design or something more subdued and elegant, these bird feeders are the perfect way to welcome spring into your garden this year.
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