• Creating a DIY tea cup bird feeder is a delightful way to attract our feathered friends while adding a touch of charm to your garden. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your very own:

    Materials Needed:

    • A sturdy teacup and saucer (preferably mismatched for a quirky look)
    • Strong adhesive (such as epoxy or a hot glue gun)
    • A small eye screw (optional)
    • Twine or strong wire for hanging
    • Birdseed of your choice

    Instructions:

    1. Prepare Your Base: Start by choosing a stable surface to work on. Take the teacup and position it upside down on the saucer. This will serve as the base of your feeder.

    2. Adhere the Cup to the Saucer: Apply a generous amount of adhesive to the bottom of the teacup. Firmly press it onto the centre of the saucer, ensuring it’s stable. Allow it to dry completely according to the adhesive instructions.

    3. Add a Hanging Mechanism: If you’d like to hang your feeder, screw an eye screw into the bottom of the saucer. Alternatively, you can make a loop with twine or wire, securing it around the base of the cup if you prefer a more rustic look.

    4. Fill with Birdseed: Once dry, turn the feeder upright and fill the cup with birdseed. Take care not to overfill it; a generous layer will do.

    5. Find the Perfect Spot: Choose a location in your garden that is visible, yet provides some shelter for the birds. Hang your feeder securely from a tree branch or a hook, ensuring it’s out of reach of any lurking cats.

    6. Enjoy the Show: Sit back and watch as birds flock to your charming new feeder, bringing life and colour to your garden.

    This simple project not only recycles old crockery but also offers a delightful way to connect with nature. Happy birdwatching!

  • Creating a homemade bird feeder from a milk carton is a delightful and eco-friendly project that can attract a variety of birds to your garden. Here’s a simple guide to get you started.

    Materials Needed:

    • An empty milk carton (1-litre works best)
    • Scissors
    • String or wire (for hanging)
    • Birdseed
    • Paint (optional, for decoration)
    • Hole punch (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Clean the Carton: Rinse the milk carton thoroughly to remove any residue, ensuring it is completely dry before proceeding.

    2. Cut Windows: Using scissors, carefully cut out two rectangular openings on opposite sides of the carton. These should be about 10 cm high and 5 cm wide — wide enough for birds to access the seeds.

    3. Prepare the base: If you like, you can create a small platform for the seeds to rest on by cutting a small piece of cardboard and securing it inside at the bottom, just beneath the openings.

    4. Decorate (Optional): If you fancy, paint the outside of the carton to enhance its aesthetic appeal. Just be sure to use non-toxic paint that is safe for the environment.

    5. Add Drainage Holes: To ensure that rainwater doesn’t collect inside, use a hole punch or scissors to poke a few small holes in the bottom of the carton.

    6. Fill with Birdseed: Add a generous amount of birdseed into the carton, filling it up to just below the openings.

    7. Attach String or Wire: Puncture a small hole at the top of the carton and thread through some string or wire for hanging. Make sure it is securely tied.

    8. Hang Your Feeder: Finally, find a suitable location in your garden or yard to hang your feeder. A spot near trees or shrubs is ideal, as it provides shelter for the birds.

    By following these simple steps, you can enjoy watching your feathered friends while contributing to their well-being with a homemade bird feeder crafted from an everyday item!