Creating your own bird feeder is a delightful way to invite nature’s charm right to your backyard. These 21 DIY bird feeder projects offer a variety of styles and materials to suit all skill levels and preferences.
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Whether you want a simple feeder or a decorative piece, each project brings birds closer while adding a unique touch to your outdoor space.
I remember the joy of building my first bird feeder from a recycled bottle and watching colorful birds gather daily. These DIY bird feeder projects not only provide nourishment for birds but also bring peaceful moments and a lively atmosphere to your garden or balcony.
Classic Pinecone Peanut Butter Bird Feeder
This timeless bird feeder uses a pinecone, peanut butter, and birdseed to attract a variety of birds. It’s simple, eco-friendly, and perfect for beginners.
The sticky peanut butter holds the seeds in place, making it easy for birds to perch and feed. Hanging it from a tree branch adds a rustic charm to your garden while supporting local wildlife.
Steps:
- Collect a clean pinecone and tie a string around its top.
- Spread peanut butter all over the pinecone’s scales.
- Roll the pinecone in birdseed until well-coated.
- Hang the feeder from a sturdy tree branch in your yard.
Recycled Bottle Suet Cake Feeder
Transform an empty plastic bottle into a suet cake feeder that keeps birds nourished during colder months. This project involves filling the bottle with a mixture of fat and seeds, then slicing openings for birds to peck through.
Its enclosed design protects the suet from rain, making it a practical and sustainable feeder option.
Steps:
- Clean and dry an empty plastic bottle.
- Cut small openings on the sides for bird access.
- Mix melted suet with birdseed and fill the bottle.
- Secure a hanging wire and place the feeder outdoors.
Mason Jar Seed Dispenser Bird Feeder
A mason jar can be cleverly converted into a seed dispenser bird feeder. With minimal tools, this project creates a charming and functional feeder that releases seeds gradually.
It’s easy to refill and clean, making it a favorite for gardeners who appreciate vintage aesthetics while feeding birds.
Steps:
- Attach a wooden base with holes to the mason jar’s lid.
- Fill the jar with birdseed and screw the lid on tightly.
- Invert the jar and mount it on a wooden or metal frame.
- Place it in a shaded area accessible to birds.
Teacup and Saucer Hanging Feeder
Repurpose old teacups and saucers into an elegant hanging bird feeder. The shallow saucer holds seeds, while the teacup serves as the support.
This whimsical project adds a touch of charm and vintage flair to your garden, attracting small birds who enjoy perching on the delicate setup.
Steps:
- Glue a teacup to its matching saucer securely using waterproof adhesive.
- Attach a sturdy wire or chain through the cup handle for hanging.
- Fill the saucer with birdseed.
- Hang the feeder from a tree branch or hook in your garden.
Wooden Crate Multi-Seed Tray Feeder
Use a small wooden crate to create a multi-seed tray feeder that accommodates various bird types. Its spacious design allows you to fill different sections with assorted seeds or nuts.
This project encourages birds to gather and socialize, making your garden lively and interactive.
Steps:
- Find a clean wooden crate and sand rough edges.
- Divide the crate interior into sections if desired.
- Fill each section with different birdseed varieties.
- Place the crate feeder securely on a flat surface outdoors.
Orange Peel Citrus Bird Feeder Bowl
This eco-friendly bird feeder uses hollowed-out orange peels as natural seed bowls. The citrus scent deters pests while attracting birds.
It’s a colorful and biodegradable option that adds a fresh look to your outdoor space and encourages small birds to visit frequently.
Steps:
- Cut an orange in half and scoop out the fruit.
- Make small holes near the rind edges for hanging.
- Fill each half with birdseed.
- Thread string through holes and hang in your garden.
Tin Can Painted Hanging Feeder
Recycle tin cans by painting them with weatherproof colors to create charming hanging feeders. The sturdy metal holds seeds well, and the colorful design adds visual interest.
This project is fun for kids and adults alike, combining creativity with functionality.
Steps:
- Clean an empty tin can and remove sharp edges.
- Paint the exterior with weatherproof paint and let dry.
- Punch holes near the rim to attach hanging wire.
- Fill with birdseed and hang outdoors.
Coconut Shell Half Feeder for Small Birds
A hollowed coconut shell half makes a natural and sustainable bird feeder. Its curved shape holds seeds or water, perfect for small birds and finches.
Hanging this feeder invites wildlife while blending seamlessly into tropical or natural garden settings.
Steps:
- Cut a coconut in half and clean out the flesh.
- Drill holes on opposite sides for hanging strings.
- Fill the shell with birdseed or water.
- Hang from a sturdy branch or garden hook.
Upcycled Wooden Spoon Seed Scoop Feeder
Use old wooden spoons to create small seed scoop feeders perfect for window sills or patios. These feeders offer a cozy spot for birds to perch and eat, adding a rustic and creative touch to your outdoor décor with minimal materials.
Steps:
- Find sturdy wooden spoons and clean them well.
- Attach a looped string or wire to the handle’s end.
- Fill the spoon bowl with birdseed.
- Hang the feeder near windows or garden areas.
DIY Log Feeder with Seed-Filled Holes
Transform a wooden log into a rustic bird feeder by drilling holes and filling them with seed balls. This natural design attracts woodpeckers and other birds that enjoy clinging to bark surfaces.
It’s a durable and eye-catching option for any backyard.
Steps:
- Select a dry log and drill several holes of varying sizes.
- Prepare seed balls by mixing birdseed with gelatin or peanut butter.
- Fill the holes with seed balls and let them set.
- Place or hang the log feeder in your garden.
Gourd Birdhouse Feeder with Seed Tray
Hollowed gourds make charming birdhouse-style feeders with added seed trays below for easy access. This project combines shelter and food, attracting nesting birds as well as seed eaters.
Decorating the gourd adds a personal touch to your garden vibe.
Steps:
- Clean and hollow a dried gourd thoroughly.
- Cut an entrance hole and attach a small seed tray below.
- Fill the tray with birdseed.
- Hang the feeder securely from a tree or pole.
Hanging Wooden Pallet Seed Feeder
Repurpose small wooden pallets to create a hanging seed feeder with a broad surface for birds to perch and eat. This DIY project is sturdy and holds generous amounts of seed, ideal for attracting larger bird species or groups at once.
Steps:
- Find a small wooden pallet and sand rough areas.
- Attach hooks or wires for hanging.
- Fill the pallet surface with birdseed.
- Hang from a tree or garden structure.
Clay Pot Upside-Down Feeder with Perch
An upside-down clay pot feeder with a wooden perch underneath offers a unique and artistic feeding spot. The pot shelters seeds from rain, while birds can comfortably rest on the perch.
This design fits well in Mediterranean or rustic garden themes.
Steps:
- Attach a wooden dowel beneath a clay pot as a perch.
- Hang the pot upside down using strong wire.
- Fill the opening with birdseed.
- Place in a sheltered outdoor location.
Hollowed Log Hanging Seed Feeder
A hollowed-out log suspended with ropes creates a natural-looking hanging seed feeder. Birds can cling to the log’s rough surface while feeding, making it a favorite spot for woodland species.
The log’s size can be adjusted to suit your garden space.
Steps:
- Select a sturdy log and hollow out the center.
- Attach strong ropes to each end for hanging.
- Fill the hollow with birdseed.
- Hang from a tree branch or garden beam.
Upcycled Wine Cork Mini Feeder Set
Small wine corks can be turned into mini bird feeders perfect for tiny birds and finches. Attach several cork feeders to a frame or branch to create a playful feeding station.
This project is compact and colorful, ideal for balconies or small gardens.
Steps:
- Hollow out wine corks slightly to hold seed.
- Attach thin wires or strings to corks for hanging.
- Fill cork cavities with birdseed.
- Hang multiple cork feeders close together.
Plastic Spoon Flower-Shaped Feeder
Arrange colorful plastic spoons in a flower shape to create a vibrant bird feeder. Each spoon holds a small amount of seed, encouraging birds to explore different spots.
This cheerful design adds a splash of color and creativity to any outdoor area.
Steps:
- Collect and clean plastic spoons of various colors.
- Glue spoons in a circular flower pattern on a base.
- Fill each spoon with birdseed.
- Mount or hang the feeder where birds can access.
Wire Mesh Cylinder Seed Feeder
A simple wire mesh cylinder filled with seeds provides an open design that many bird species enjoy. This feeder allows easy access and good airflow, keeping seeds fresh.
It’s lightweight and easy to refill, suitable for hanging from trees or poles.
Steps:
- Shape sturdy wire mesh into a cylinder and secure the edges.
- Attach a hanging loop at the top.
- Fill the cylinder with birdseed.
- Hang in a tree or garden post.
Old Boot Planter Turned Bird Feeder
Give an old boot a second life by converting it into a quirky bird feeder. Fill the boot with soil or moss and seeds, creating a unique platform for birds.
This playful project adds personality and charm to your garden or porch area.
Steps:
- Clean an old boot thoroughly.
- Fill the toe area with soil or moss.
- Add birdseed on top as food.
- Place the boot on a stable surface outdoors.
Recycled CD and Bottle Cap Hanging Feeder
Combine recycled CDs and bottle caps to craft a shiny, reflective hanging bird feeder. The reflective surface can attract curious birds, while the bottle cap holds seeds.
This project is eco-friendly and adds a bit of sparkle to your garden.
Steps:
- Clean old CDs and bottle caps.
- Glue bottle caps onto the center of CDs.
- Fill caps with birdseed.
- Attach strings to hang the feeders from branches.
Simple Tray Feeder from Old Picture Frame
Repurpose an old picture frame into a shallow tray feeder. Add a mesh or waterproof backing to hold seeds securely.
This flat feeder is easy to set up on tables or railings and invites a variety of birds to feast.
Steps:
- Take an old picture frame and add a solid backing.
- Attach mesh or waterproof material inside the frame.
- Fill the tray with birdseed.
- Place on a stable outdoor surface.
Hanging Basket Feeder with Seed and Fruit
A hanging basket filled with seed and pieces of fruit offers a mixed feeding option that attracts diverse bird species. The open design allows birds to perch and feed comfortably, combining visual appeal with practical use.
Steps:
- Select a small hanging basket and line it with mesh or cloth.
- Fill with birdseed and fresh fruit pieces like apple slices.
- Hang the basket in a shady spot outdoors.
- Refresh fruit regularly to keep it fresh.