Here we go with another fun bird feeder craft project for kids of all ages and adults to make. This one is a good one for anyone who likes to build things. We are sharing how to make a DIY hanging bird feeder from craft sticks. We have created many other bird feeders, and this one is another favorite.

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You know how much we love hanging in our garden and welcoming wildlife and pollinators into our garden. Well, our love stretches beyond butterflies and bees and includes all the neighborhood birds too! And, let's face it we also love those silly squirrels. Making a bird feeder is a simple way to help out the birds in your backyard. With a few simple supplies, you can create a lovely spot for birds to come, rest and eat.
How to Make a Hanging Bird Feeder with Craft Sticks
wooden craft sticks
glue gun
twine
Birdseed - see my note below about birdseed
The first step is to make a platform, or base, from a row of craft sticks. Start by placing two sticks about craft stick length apart. And, place another one in the middle of those two. Glue craft sticks to these three sticks to make a strong base for the bird seed. Keep the sticks as close together as possible, so the small seeds don't all seep through.
Now that you have built the base, it's time to build the sides of the bird feeder. Start alternately stacking and gluing the sticks to the edges of the platform. Work around and around, higher and higher. You are building a little log cabin-style bird feeder.
Here's where a little engineering and design come into play. We opted to add an additional perch for the birds. This perch is totally optional. I flipped the platform over and glued two craft sticks to the base and to each other, leaving about 2 inches sticking out from the base. This will act as a little perch that the birds can sit on. Who knows if it will be used or if the birds will simply sit directly on the sides of the feeder, or just hop inside. But, this is how kids can have fun with the design.
I liked the height of four sticks stacked on top of each other. I didn't want to build it too high or the birds won't be able to get inside. But, high enough to keep the seeds from all spilling out.
Okay, before adding the fourth row of craft sticks it's time to attach the string. Cut two lengths of twine that are about 18 inches long. Lay a strip of hot glue along of top of one of the craft sticks and place the middle of the twine into the glue. You could use the end of a pencil to press the twine into the glue. Place another craft stick over the string, to secure it in place. The string should be secure with the two ends hanging out. Tie the two ends together. Repeat this on the other side of the bird feeder. You now have two twine loops to hang the feeder in the tree. Now it's time to fill the hanging bird feeder.
What birdseed should I fill my DIY bird feeder with?
This is a common question and the answer is that it depends on where you live and what type of birds you'd like to attract to your feeder. First, it's important to find a good quality bird seed. And, make sure it is for an outdoor bird feeder - not indoor tropical birds, etc. Then it's deciding which birds you'd like to have visit your feeder. I like a multi-mix of seeds. Read the label on the seed bag and you will find everything you need to know.
Where to hang your DIY hanging bird feeder?
Once the hanging popsicle stick bird feeder is filled it is time to hang it in your tree. Find a spot where the birds can find the feeder, that isn't too easily accessible by squirrels. In the end, the most important part about making a DIY bird feeder is having patience. You will need to wait and see which birds find your feeder.
Have fun with the design of this feeder. Use these instructions as inspiration and a jumping-off point for your own design. You could add a craft stick roof? Paint the bird feeder? Build the side higher? Or, lower? What will your hanging craft stick bird feeder look like? And, who will visit your feeder? Ours welcomed a few sparrows and the squirrels haven't found it...yet!
Where will you be hanging your bird feeder?
Check out all of the creative DIY bird feeders we have shared.
Make sure you are following along...
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