DIY Bird Feeders Kids Can Make on Their Own

Kids will be able to see birds up close with these DIY bird feeders they can make on their own. Building on our article about DIY backyard habitats, we put together some easy bird feeder projects kids can tackle as well. Along with some tips from the National Wildlife Federation, kids should have everything they need to successfully attract birds.

Don’t have a backyard? No worries. A balcony or patio will work, too. Or look for a local organization, like a library, nature center, or community garden, where kids can donate their masterpiece. Then others in the community can enjoy it as well. In no particular order, here are some of our favorite DIY bird feeders we found that would be perfect for kids.

Canning Lid Feeder

This project is so easy. You just need canning lids and twine for the feeder itself. Then you want to mix together the following:

• 3-1/2 cups of birdseed
• 3/4 cup of flour
• 1 gelatin packet
• 1/2 cup of water

Place your canning lids onto waxed paper and then press the mixture firmly inside. Let set for at least 24 hours and then hang. Once the feeders are empty, just make the mixture again and fill ’em back up. Thanks to Birds & Blooms for teaming up with us on this project.

Embroidery Hoop Feeder

This is a clever way to make a bird feeder. Charli, pictured above, used an old embroidery hoop and window screen to craft her own tray feeder. She was featured in Birds & Blooms, and you can get the full instructions on how she made it right here.

Craft Stick Feeder

This is one of the most colorful bird feeders we’ve seen, which is featured on the website Made with Happy. She layers craft sticks to get a sturdy, colorful design. Be sure to check out her blog for full instructions on how to make it yourself.

Orange Bird Feeder

Here’s one more from Made with Happy. This one is so simple because all you need is an orange; then you can give it new life as a feeder. Get her instructions for it here.

Pine Cone Feeder

The pine cone feeder is such a classic, and it’s still a good one kids can make today. All you need is a pine cone, some peanut butter, and seeds. We’ve also seen some kids make a similar feeder but using old toilet paper rolls instead. Just roll the cardboard in peanut butter and then coat with seeds. This step-by-step project is available from One Little Project. Check it out here. Here’s another similar project from Birds & Blooms, using recycled paper.