Window Birdfeeder

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Difficulty

Starter Projects

About Project

Make a window birdfeeder from scrap wood!

Spring is finally here for us, and we've been anxious to work on an outdoor project. Grace has been wanting a birdfeeder, and I've been wanting birds chirping outdoors, so we set out to make good use of our scrap pile.

I've been seeing those window birdfeeders, and thought we'd give it a try. Then we can enjoy the birds indoors too!

We had some scrap 1x8 boards in pretty terrible condition, and of course, quite a few 1x2 and 1x3 scraps. So we were able to build this little birdfeeder for free!

I also repurposed some suction cups that I had found on an old car accessory for adhering the birdfeeder to the window.

Then we just filled up the little tray, and the hard part begins. Waiting for the birds to find the feeder.

You can make this birdfeeder too! I bet you have the scraps lying around.

PS - We have never had an issue with birds flying into our windows and keep our windows nice and dirty to prevent bird injuries.

Dimensions

Preparation

Shopping List

1 - 1x8 @ 18" long
1 - 1x3 @ 15" long
1 - 1x2 @ 16" long
Glue and 1 1/4" nails
4 suction cups and screws
birdseed

Cut List

1 - 1x8 @ 14" (main piece)
1 - 1x8 @ 2 1/2" (tray bottom)
2 - 1x3 @ 7" (top end cut at 45 degrees off square - roof) - NOTE: You could cut one at 6 1/4" and one at 7" and attach to form the roof if you do not have a miter saw
2 - 1x2 @ 3 1/4" (tray sides)
1 - 1x2 @ 8 3/4" (tray front)

Tools

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

From the 1x8 cut out the back as shown above. I used a jigsaw to cut center out. I highly recommend sanding your cut at this stage - it'll be much easier to sand now than after the little birdie feeder is assembled.

Step 2

Then add the bottom tray. I used glue and 1 1/4" finish nails.

Step 3

I went ahead and built the roof first. then attached it to the back with 1 1/4" finish nails and glue. Lots of glue.

Step 4

Now the sides. Make sure you attach to back and bottom.

Step 5

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.

Project Type

Kids Tables and Chairs