Modern Cedar Fence Picket Birdhouse Kit

diy birdhouse kit
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Very easy to build diy birdhouse, pieces cut from a cedar fence picket.  This makes a great building kit for classroom projects or an afternoon craft with beginning woodworkers.

Also check out our traditional cedar birdhouse plans here.

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modern cedar birdhouse on tree
modern cedar birdhouse assembly guide

Want to share your love of DIY with your kiddos?  Building a birdhouse is a great starter project.

Here's how you can build a modern cedar birdhouse for just $1 using half of a cedar fence picket.

DIY Birdhouse Kit Instructions Free Printable

Here's a free printable for building this birdhouse with instructions.

 

Photo Steps of Building this Modern Birdhouse

This plan is designed for a 5 1/2" wide x 1/2" thick fence picket, about $2 each.  

Other materials like a 1x6 could be used, but because the wood is thicker, it may alter your outcome slightly.  Adjust accordingly if you use different materials.

Use a miter saw or circular saw to cut the cedar fence picket as noted in the cut list below.  Notice I trimmed the rough end off and there's also enough leftover for a second birdhouse.

Then I just nailed the front to the sides.  If you are having kiddos do the assembly, consider predrilling holes and having them attach with pound in nails or screws.  Also recommended is wood glue designed for oily wood and exterior applications.

Next, it's time to add the top and bottom - the back side is still open.  Notice the back is a little bigger - this is just to add that "mod" feel to it and give you a place to hang on a tree.

Now we'll put the back on ....

Just line up the bottom and outside edges with the floor and roof ...

Drill a hole to hang the house on a tree

And then add a front door with a larger bit

The back can be used to hang on a tree.

Since this is cedar, no finish is needed.  The birds will appreciate that!

 

 

 

 

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Modern Cedar Fence Picket Birdhouse Kit

Dimensions
modern birdhouse dimensions from plans
Dimensions for modern birdhouse plans

Preparation

Shopping List

1/2 of a cedar fence picket measuring 5 1/2" wide x 1/2" thick

1 1/4" nails or screws wood glue suitable for exterior applications and oily wood

Cut List

Cut from the cedar fence picket the following:

  • 2 – 5 1/2” x 5 1/2”(top/bottom)
  • 2 – 5 1/2” x 4 3/4” (sides)
  • 1 – 5 1/2” x 5” (front)
  • 1 – 5 1/2” x 8 1/2” (back)
Tools
Tape Measure
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Drill
Circular Saw
Brad Nailer
General Instructions

Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!

Instructions

Step 1

Attach sides to front.

Step 2

Keep back edges flush and attach top and bottom to sides and front. Overhang is approximately 1/4" on front and sides, no overhang on back.

Step 3

Then attach back to main house and cut holes for front door and hanging.

Finishing Instructions
Preparation Instructions
Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth.

It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.

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