Popsicle Stick Bird Feeders

 
 

(Courtesy of The Best Ideas for Kids)

What could be more fun than creating a colorful bird feeder to start the spring season off? This simple popsicle stick craft combines creativity and nature appreciation. As you build this feeder together, you'll not only provide a tasty treat for your backyard friends but also open up opportunities to explore backyard wildlife.

You’ll Need:

  • Popsicle sticks - regular size, plain or colored

  • Non-toxic wood glue (hot glue works as well but may not last as long)

  • Cotton string

  • Scissors

  • Pony Beads

  • Bird Seed

To Make: 

  1.  Assemble the base - Line up 11 popsicle sticks to form the base of the bird feeder. Keep them in line and form a square with them. Apply wood glue along another popsicle stick and place the popsicle stick onto the base, right next to the edge so that just the rounded ends are sticking out. Repeat for another popsicle stick on the opposite side, completing the base.

  2. Build the walls - Apply a dab of wood glue to the end of each horizontal popsicle stick. Place a popsicle stick on each side, vertically, beginning to form the bird feeder walls. Repeat, adding two more popsicle sticks, but horizontally this time.The completed bird feeder should have 5 layers of popsicle sticks, including the base. 

  3. Make the perch - Apply a line of wood glue to half of a popsicle stick. Slide the popsicle stick perch into the side, in a gap in the wall, with the glue facing down. Press the popsicle stick in place and set the bird feeder aside to dry completely for several hours, until it feels strong and secure.

  4. Add the strings - Cut 4 pieces of string, each about 4 feet long. Tie each string to a corner of the bird feeder, looping it through at least two popsicle stick layers, not just under the top layer. Tie a secure double knot.  To make it extra strong, apply a small drop of glue onto the knot and let it dry.

  5.  Add beads (optional) - If you want to add a little more color to your bird feeders, tie a knot in the strings a few inches up from the corners of the bird feeders. Depending on the string and beads you’re using, you may need to tie a double knot – the beads should sit on top of the knot, and not slide over them. Slide a few beads onto each string, and tie another knot above the beads to keep them in place.

Napp Network