24 DIY Bird Feeder Ideas

Looking to attract some beautiful birds to your backyard? These delightful DIY bird feeder ideas are a fantastic way to bring feathered friends to your space, and they’re surprisingly easy and budget-friendly to create! From charming teacup feeders to sturdy wooden designs, there’s a project here for every crafter and garden enthusiast.

Not only will these feeders provide a tasty treat for your local birds, but they’ll also add a lovely, whimsical touch to your outdoor decor..

Charming Teacup Bird Feeder

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Give your vintage teacups a new life by transforming them into adorable bird feeders! This project involves mixing birdseed with lard or suet and pressing it into the teacups.

You can even tie a ribbon or string to the handle for easy hanging.

It's a wonderfully whimsical way to feed your feathered visitors while adding a touch of vintage charm to your garden..

Pro Tip: Use a mix of seeds to attract a wider variety of bird species.

See the full tutorial: Charming Teacup Bird Feeder

Simple Pine Cone Bird Feeder

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This is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly bird feeder projects around! All you need are pine cones, peanut butter, birdseed, and twine.

Simply spread peanut butter onto the pine cones, roll them in birdseed, and hang them from a tree branch.

It’s a perfect activity to do with kids, getting them outdoors to collect supplies and then enjoying the birds that visit..

Pro Tip: For less mess, use a spatula or butter knife to spread the peanut butter, and supervise children closely.

See the full tutorial: Simple Pine Cone Bird Feeder

Recycled Bottle and Bowl Feeder

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Upcycle a plastic bottle and a thrifted wooden bowl into a unique and attractive bird feeder.

This project involves drilling holes in the bottle for seed dispensing and in the bowl to fit the bottle neck.

You can then thread beads and cord to create a decorative hanging element.

It’s a creative way to give old items a new purpose and provide a meal for your avian friends..

Pro Tip: Consider using a colorful recycled bottle or painting the wooden bowl to make the feeder even more visually appealing.

See the full tutorial: Recycled Bottle and Bowl Feeder

DIY Cedar Board Bird Feeder

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Construct a durable and attractive bird feeder using a single cedar board.

This design is cost-effective and relatively quick to build, making it ideal for a weekend project.

The cedar wood is naturally weather-resistant, ensuring your feeder lasts through the seasons.

It features a simple yet effective design to hold plenty of seed, providing a reliable feeding station for birds..

Pro Tip: Drill small drainage holes in the base to prevent water from pooling and spoiling the seed.

See the full tutorial: DIY Cedar Board Bird Feeder

Terra Cotta Pot Bird Feeder

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Turn a simple terra cotta flower pot and saucers into a charming bird feeder.

This feeder uses a plastic bottle as a seed reservoir, dispensing seeds through holes drilled in the pot.

It’s a clever way to use garden supplies for a functional and pretty feeder that birds will love.

The ceramic design also offers a nice aesthetic in your garden..

Pro Tip: Soaking the terra cotta before drilling makes it easier to work with and less prone to cracking.

See the full tutorial: Terra Cotta Pot Bird Feeder

Colorblock Clear Tube Feeder

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Add a modern pop of color to your garden with these DIY bird feeders made from clear plastic tubes.

You can customize the look by painting colorful patterns on the tubes.

Cut a slit for a perch and a small opening for seeds to dispense.

It's a fun, quick project that uses readily available materials and bright paints to attract attention..

Pro Tip: Use weather-proof outdoor acrylic paints to ensure the colors last through sun and rain.

See the full tutorial: Colorblock Clear Tube Feeder

Chic PVC Pipe Bird Feeder

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Utilize leftover PVC pipe from home projects to create a functional and eye-catching bird feeder.

This design often incorporates old plates for a dining surface and a PVC pipe as the seed reservoir.

You can paint or decorate the pipe to match your garden's aesthetic.

It's a robust option that holds a good amount of seed and can be easily hung..

Pro Tip: Ensure the PVC pipe is thoroughly cleaned and dried before painting for best adhesion.

See the full tutorial: Chic PVC Pipe Bird Feeder

Painted Birdhouse Garden Feeder

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Brighten up your garden by transforming inexpensive wooden birdhouses into colorful feeders.

This no-tools-needed project involves painting the birdhouses and a flat tray with fun colors, then assembling them with strong glue.

Add L brackets and string to hang it from a hook.

It’s a simple, cheerful way to attract birds and add personality to your yard..

Pro Tip: Use non-toxic, water-based paints for the safety of the birds.

See the full tutorial: Painted Birdhouse Garden Feeder

Platform Style Bird Feeder

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Build a simple yet effective platform bird feeder that offers ample space for birds to perch and eat.

Constructed from lumber, this feeder has a flat base with raised edges to hold seeds.

You can add a simple gable roof for protection from the elements.

It's a straightforward woodworking project that provides a generous feeding surface for your feathered visitors..

Pro Tip: Consider using treated lumber or applying a non-toxic sealant to prolong the life of the feeder.

See the full tutorial: Platform Style Bird Feeder

Elegant Teacup and Saucer Feeder

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Create a simple and beautiful bird feeder by gluing a teacup to a saucer.

This project uses a strong adhesive to join the two pieces, creating a perfect little perch and seed holder.

Just fill with birdseed and hang using a gutter hook.

It's an incredibly easy way to add charm to your garden and feed your local birds..

Pro Tip: Allow the glue to cure fully for at least 24 hours before hanging to ensure it's sturdy.

See the full tutorial: Elegant Teacup and Saucer Feeder

Handmade Wood and Mesh Feeder

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Craft a sturdy, long-lasting bird feeder using wood and mesh hardware cloth.

This design typically involves creating an octagonal wooden frame with a mesh bottom to allow seeds to flow through.

It's a more involved woodworking project, but the result is a robust feeder that can withstand the elements and attract many birds.

You can also add a mounting post for versatile placement..

Pro Tip: If you plan to paint or stain the feeder, do so before attaching the mesh bottom for easier application.

See the full tutorial: Handmade Wood and Mesh Feeder

Automatic Seed Dispensing Feeder

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Discover how to build an automatic bird feeder that keeps seeds stocked and ready for your feathered visitors.

This type of feeder often uses gravity to dispense seeds into a tray as they are eaten.

It’s a great way to ensure a consistent food source for birds, especially if you're away or have busy periods.

Many designs incorporate wood for durability..

Pro Tip: Consider the size of the seed holes carefully to prevent too much seed from spilling out at once.

See the full tutorial: Automatic Seed Dispensing Feeder

Simple Cedar Bird Feeder

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This straightforward plan uses cedar wood to create a classic, functional bird feeder.

Cedar is an excellent choice for outdoor projects due to its natural resistance to rot and insects.

The design is simple, focusing on providing a reliable feeding tray with easy access for birds.

It’s a great starter woodworking project that yields a beautiful and practical result..

Pro Tip: Pre-drilling holes before inserting screws will prevent the wood from splitting, especially near edges.

See the full tutorial: Simple Cedar Bird Feeder

Rustic Log Bird Feeder

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Transform a simple log into a charming bird feeder that attracts a variety of birds like woodpeckers, chickadees, and blue jays.

This project involves drilling holes into a log and filling them with suet or a peanut butter seed mix.

It's a natural and rustic addition to your garden, offering a sturdy dining spot for your avian visitors..

Pro Tip: For easier handling and to prevent cracking as the wood dries, consider removing the pith from the log before filling it with suet.

See the full tutorial: Rustic Log Bird Feeder

Charming Gazebo Bird Feeder

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Create a beautiful gazebo-style bird feeder that's both decorative and functional.

This project uses cedar boards to construct a charming hexagonal structure with intricate cutouts for windows.

It's a delightful way to provide shelter and food for birds, and can even be made in multiples as gifts..

Pro Tip: If you don't have a jigsaw, most home improvement stores can cut the plywood panels to size for you, making assembly even easier.

See the full tutorial: Charming Gazebo Bird Feeder

Easy Build Hinged Roof Bird Feeder

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This practical bird feeder features hinged access to the roof for easy refilling and clear sides so you can see when it's time for a top-up.

Dowels on the sides offer a convenient perch for birds.

You can easily mount it to a pole or hang it, making it a versatile addition to your garden..

Pro Tip: Download the free PDF plans from the blog post for detailed measurements and cutting instructions, simplifying the building process.

See the full tutorial: Easy Build Hinged Roof Bird Feeder

Budget-Friendly Mason Jar Lid Feeder

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A super simple and inexpensive way to feed your backyard birds, this feeder uses just the lid of a mason jar! It's a fantastic craft to do with kids and can be customized with cheerios or other bird-safe treats.

Make a bunch of these to hang around your yard for a constant supply of food for your feathered friends..

Pro Tip: Mix flour, birdseed, Cheerios, corn syrup, gelatine, and water to create a simple, long-lasting birdseed mix to fill your lid feeders.

See the full tutorial: Budget-Friendly Mason Jar Lid Feeder

Recycled Log Hanging Feeder

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Give a natural log a new purpose as a hanging bird feeder that attracts a variety of small birds.

This quick project can be done in under 15 minutes and uses a chainsaw and bandsaw to create feeding areas.

It's a wonderful way to upcycle natural materials and support local wildlife..

Pro Tip: To create a crack-free feeder, allow the log to dry for several weeks after removing the center before attaching end pieces made from rot-resistant wood like cedar.

See the full tutorial: Recycled Log Hanging Feeder

Creative Wine Bottle Bird Feeder

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Repurpose a wine bottle into an elegant bird feeder that dispenses seed as birds visit.

This design uses a wooden frame to hold the bottle and a base for the birds to perch.

It's a stylish and effective way to provide seed, and you can even paint or stain the wood to match your garden decor..

Pro Tip: You can adapt this design to hang from a hook or attach a stake to the back to place it directly into the ground.

See the full tutorial: Creative Wine Bottle Bird Feeder

Upcycled Silver Platter Bird Feeder

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Give an old silver platter a dazzling second life as a unique bird feeder.

The pre-drilled holes make it perfect for hanging, and a jewelry glaze gives it an antiqued look.

Adorn it with beads and charms for an extra touch of sparkle that birds will love..

Pro Tip: Use jewelry wire and small charms to create a decorative hanging mechanism and add a touch of personality to your feeder.

See the full tutorial: Upcycled Silver Platter Bird Feeder

Simple Cedar Board Bird Feeder

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This easy-to-build bird feeder uses cedar boards and window screen for a durable and functional design.

It's a great family project that teaches basic woodworking skills.

The feeder is designed to be mounted on a post, making it a convenient addition to your yard..

Pro Tip: Mixing different types of seeds can attract a wider variety of bird species, so experiment to see who visits your feeder.

See the full tutorial: Simple Cedar Board Bird Feeder

Adorable Cup and Saucer Bird Feeder

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Turn an orphaned teacup and saucer into a charming bird feeder that's perfect for your garden.

This project is a delightful way to recycle old ceramics and create a whimsical feeding station.

It's simple, cute, and a lovely way to welcome birds..

Pro Tip: Secure the cup to the saucer using a strong, waterproof adhesive suitable for ceramics.

See the full tutorial: Adorable Cup and Saucer Bird Feeder

Wine Bottle Bird Feeder with Wooden Frame

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Build a functional and attractive bird feeder using a wine bottle and wood.

This design incorporates a sturdy wooden frame to hold the bottle and dispense seed onto a perch.

It's a great way to repurpose a wine bottle and create an eye-catching feeder for your garden..

Pro Tip: If you don't have a table saw, ask for assistance at your local home improvement store to cut the wood pieces for you.

See the full tutorial: Wine Bottle Bird Feeder with Wooden Frame

Cute Window Bird Feeder from Cake Pan

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Bring the birds right up to your window with this clever feeder made from an old cake pan.

It allows for close-up views of birds as they dine, while keeping them safe from predators.

This project is a fantastic way to enjoy wildlife from the comfort of your home..

Pro Tip: Ensure your window is spotlessly clean before attaching the feeder with suction cups for a secure hold.

See the full tutorial: Cute Window Bird Feeder from Cake Pan