Make Your Own Homemade Bird Feeders

Engaging the entire family in constructing and designing new homemade bird feeders is a great way to bring everyone together


It's also an ideal addition to any landscape. They can be as small or large as you please, and the kids can even help to paint and decorate them to feel a part of the entire process.



First, you must decide where the new bird feeders will be placed. Do you have an ideal tree you can attach them to, or will they need to be stand-alone? Also, ensure you know what type of birds will frequent your area or how to construct a feeder that will attract the bird you want to be in your yard.


If you decide to make a homemade bird house/feeder combination, you'll need access to a hammer and other tools. However, a little plastic and an old metal hanger will be enough to make a simple feeder without any hardware.


Your home made bird feeders will start with a clear sheet of plastic easily found at any craft supply store. Simply roll the plastic to form a tube, and staple or glue the edges together.



The bottom of the feeder is easily made by cutting a plastic or Styrofoam cup to be glued on the bottom. Let this dry overnight to ensure the best adherence to the bottom of your feeder.


Next, find a hole puncher that is handheld (not the kind that sits flat to punch three holes in a sheet of paper). Punch holes at various spots on the tube, and remember to punch a second hole about one inch below each one; the top hole will be the feeder hole, and the bottom one will serve as a perch.


Now you can insert plastic tubes in the bottom holes; make sure they touch the opposite side of the feeder tube, and extend at least a few inches from the outside to provide plenty of room for visitors to stand and eat.

Finally, you can fill the tube with home made bird food, and use a metal hanger or other piece of metal to hang it from a tree branch. Place it near your favorite window so that everyone can see the birds when they come to visit.

If you have a great way to make homemade bird feeders, please use the form below to share your expertise!