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Window Birdfeeder

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Submitted by Ana White on Wed, 03/28/2012 - 22:57
Difficulty
Starter Projects
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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
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Miter Saw
Brad Nailer
Power Sander
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
Outdoor Projects
Other Projects
Room
Outdoor
Style
Cottage Style Furniture Plans
Farmhouse Furniture
Children's and Kid's Room Furniture and Toy Plans

Comments

Ana White

Thu, 03/29/2012 - 07:58

Would be a great girl scout project!!! I screwed the suction cups on with some silicone, with a predrilled hole and it works great - no problem sticking to the window. I think you can buy suction cups that have different attachment kits too though. Good luck!

Guest (not verified)

Thu, 03/29/2012 - 11:39

Once I collect some scraps I think we'll have to put this together for my babies (3 and 5, lol) to decorate! :)

Brian T. (not verified)

Thu, 03/29/2012 - 11:46

Wouldn't this promote birds flying into windows? Just a possible unintended consequence...

Ana White

Thu, 03/29/2012 - 12:17

Hi Brian, this was definitely a concern when I was researching bird feeders, but what I have read is window bird feeders can actually teach birds about windows and prevent injury. We have the feeder on a small window and have not had any issues so far. Anyone have a negative experience with window birdfeeders?

Amanda H. (not verified)

Thu, 03/29/2012 - 13:43

I will be building this one ASAP! We have a little suet feeder and my son LOVES watching for birds at it. I think I'll build one as a gift for my BFF as well. Thanks Ana!

redhead_61

Thu, 03/29/2012 - 15:55

This is perfect in so many ways. You could make them any size, use up lots of different scraps, this would be the most awesome little present for kids (or for anyone wanting to make something super cute using wood) already put together or even as a kit. And think of the cute paint and decor possibilities. I LOVE this!

redhead_61

Thu, 03/29/2012 - 15:55

This is perfect in so many ways. You could make them any size, use up lots of different scraps, this would be the most awesome little present for kids (or for anyone wanting to make something super cute using wood) already put together or even as a kit. And think of the cute paint and decor possibilities. I LOVE this!

Guest (not verified)

Thu, 03/29/2012 - 18:04

Thank you Ana . My grandchildren would love this. My sister went to a home that had looseleaf paper taped to the windows As she was leaving the owner told her that they just has the window washed and had to keep paper on it so the birds wouldnt crash into them. They crash into ours all the time.

Guest (not verified)

Thu, 03/29/2012 - 19:41

Ok so this might seem like a dumb question but how do you cut the hole? As in, how do you get in there to cut it? and do you use a jig saw? (don't own one, never used one). This is so cute! My children (ages 3, 6, 7, & 9)would love to build this! What fun!

Ana White

Thu, 03/29/2012 - 23:21

Hi I am sorry I did not mention this in the plan - have updated - but you are correct. The best way to cut out is with a jigsaw. I drill a hole in the middle with a drill bit larger than my jigsaw blade to start the cut. Then I just cut out with a jigsaw and sand the edges.

Darin@Molnar.com (not verified)

Mon, 04/02/2012 - 09:17

Please fix your dang PDF links!!!

Darin

Guest (not verified)

Mon, 04/02/2012 - 11:24

Open the printer friendly version and stop complaining....this is a free awesome website.

kristen

Mon, 04/02/2012 - 12:16

I knew there was a good reason not to wash our windows this year, lol!! Very cute plan and I've got a boatload of scrap wood too big to throw away and little enough that it drives my hubby crazy that I keep it :)

VBMAMA77

Sun, 04/08/2012 - 16:29

HI Ana, my name is Angela, I am from Virginia Beach! I just wanted to drop you a few lines to say how inspired I am by you! You are so very talented and confident, I aspire to be like you. Thank you for sharing your talent with the world, your blog is fantastic.

Joni

Tue, 05/22/2012 - 20:32

Can I ask a stupid question about where to buy the suction cups? I've been pricing the 1.75" diameter ones that are made for holding bird feeders, and they're over $20 for 4 of them. Has anyone had luck finding appropriate ones? Thanks!

dandrlacher

Tue, 02/12/2013 - 14:33

I live on the west coast and was able to purchase the suction cups and all of the supplies for less than $14. The suction cups were about $2. Hope that info helps

Susan Baker (not verified)

Wed, 10/17/2012 - 18:33

I have a similar feeder we made years ago. The chickadees love the sunflower seeds and have learned to tap on the window when the little feeder is empty. Imagine our surprise when the tap taps became window cracking bangs (just kidding no cracks have appeared!) A blue jay who wasn't in the habit of eating sunflowers was tapping on the window by the little feeder. He wasn't complaining about the lack of sunflower seeds, he was letting us know his nut feeder was empty!

dandrlacher

Tue, 02/12/2013 - 14:31

My children helped me make this great idea as a birthday gift for their mother. I appreciate the instructions and the details. Your website is fantastic! Thanks so much.

CSaintD

Tue, 03/15/2016 - 09:07

I really want to make this, but having trouble finding suction cups without hooks on them.  I'm also worried about supporting the weight of a bird (or two).  Can you tell me where you got your suction cups?  I've looked at Home Depot, but they don't have much.  Thanks!

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