Bird feeding is a fun, relaxing hobby that allows you to connect with nature right in your own backyard. Watching birds come to your homemade feeders gives a great sense of satisfaction and brings joy as you observe their interesting behaviors and listen to their songs. The good news is that you don’t need fancy supplies or a lot of money to get started feeding birds. A simple bird feeder can be made right at home using recycled materials you may already have around the house.
One easy way to make a DIY bird feeder is by repurposing a cardboard shoebox. Shoeboxes make perfect little bird feeders because they are just the right size, have a covered top to keep seeds dry, and have convenient side opening for refilling and cleaning. With just a shoebox, some basic craft supplies like scissors, string, and non-toxic glue, and bird seed, you can whip up a cute feeder in no time.
In this article, we will walk through the complete step-by-step instructions for making an easy shoebox bird feeder. We will cover:
What you need
- Shoebox
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Craft knife (optional)
- String/twine
- Non-toxic glue
- Bird seed
- Popsicle sticks
- Decorative items (optional)
Step-by-step instructions
- Prep the shoebox
- Cut holes for birds
- Add perches
- Make a hanger
- Decorate (optional)
- Add bird seed
- Hang up your feeder
Choosing a location
Filling and cleaning tips
Bird feeding FAQs
What You Need to Make a Shoebox Bird Feeder
The great thing about making a DIY bird feeder is that you likely already have most, if not all, of the supplies needed around your home. To make a shoebox feeder, you will need:
Shoebox
The core of your bird feeder will be a recycled cardboard shoebox. This can be an old shoebox you’ve been hanging on to or one from a recent shoe purchase. Shoeboxes generally measure around 8-12 inches long, 5-7 inches wide, and 3-4 inches tall which gives you ample room to add feed and allow for small perches. Look for one free of any printing/images on the outside that could run if wet.
Scissors
A sturdy pair of scissors are necessary for cutting out openings in the shoebox and any decorative elements you may add. Craft scissors tend to be nice and sharp for detailed cutting.
Ruler
A ruler helps take the guesswork out of measuring where to place holes and cut lines on your box. Look for a stainless steel 12-inch ruler with a nice straight edge.
Pencil
Use a pencil to lightly trace lines where you want to cut openings or designs on the shoebox. This allows you to change your mind if needed before making permanent cuts.
Craft Knife (Optional)
While scissors can be used to cut all of the openings, a craft knife may allow you more precision. Craft knives with snap-off blades let you easily swap out dull blades.
String/Twine
To hang your bird feeder, you will need about 3-5 feet of lightweight string or twine. Look for natural fibers like cotton that won’t fray easily.
Non-Toxic Glue
Any basic non-toxic white glue or craft glue will work to assemble pieces. Avoid super glues or other chemical glues as birds can be sensitive.
Bird Seed
Fill your feeder with an all-purpose seed mix that various common feeder birds like. Look for a quality mix of millet, sunflower seeds, cracked corn, etc.
Popsicle Sticks
You can use wooden popsicle sticks cut to size to make simple perches for birds to land on. Round the corners slightly for safety.
Decorative Items (Optional)
Customize your feeder with paint, colored paper, feathers, etc. Use non-toxic school glue for attaching.
Step-By-Step Instructions for Making a Shoebox Bird Feeder
Now comes the fun part of transforming an ordinary shoebox into an adorable DIY bird feeder! Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prep the Shoebox
Start by removing the shoebox lid and thoroughly cleaning out any debris or old tissue paper with soap and water. Allow to fully dry. Use scissors to trim away any labels or paperwork on the exterior.
Step 2: Cut Holes for Birds
On one of the short sides of the box, use a ruler and pencil to lightly draw 2-3 evenly spaced lines from top to bottom where you want the holes for birds. Space holes at least 1.5 inches apart. Use your craft knife or small scissors to carefully cut out holes along the pencil lines. Make holes about 1-1.5 inches in diameter, being careful to not make them too large.
Step 3: Add Perches
Perches give small birds an ideal place to land while they access the feeder holes. Take 2-3 popsicle sticks and use scissors to cut into roughly 3 inch long pieces. Lightly sand the ends to dull sharp edges. Glue or tape perches centered under the feeder holes on the outside of the box.
Step 4: Make a Hanger
Use a pencil to poke a hole on each short side of the shoebox about 1 inch down from the top. Cut your string into two equal pieces, each about 18-24 inches long. Tie one end from each string through the holes on either side. Tie the loose ends together to form a loop for hanging.
Step 5: Decorate (Optional)
Decorate your feeder with craft paint, construction paper, artificial leaves or flowers, feathers, etc. Keep decor minimal and avoid anything that could scratch birds or come loose easily. Use non-toxic glue sparingly on natural materials.
Step 6: Add Bird Seed
Fill the bottom of the feeder box with high quality bird seed about 1-2 inches deep. Don’t overfill. Replace seed as it gets low.
Step 7: Hang Up Your Feeder
Select a location near trees or shrubs where birds naturally congregate. Use a tree branch, shepherd’s hook, or other hanger to suspend your feeder 5-7 feet off the ground with the seed holes facing outward.
Choosing a Good Location for Your Shoebox Bird Feeder
Where you hang your DIY shoebox bird feeder is important to attract birds. Here are some tips for picking the best location:
Near Natural Cover
Birds feel safest feeding when they have bushes, dense trees, or shrubs nearby to duck into to hide from predators. Situate the feeder about 5-10 feet from cover.
Visible Approach
Birds are less likely to feed if they cannot clearly scan for potential danger. Select a spot with open sightlines leading to your feeder.
Sheltered From Wind
Windy spots blow feed right out of the feeder and make landing difficult. Hang your feeder in a naturally protected nook sheltered by yard features.
Right Height
Mount your shoebox feeder 5-7 feet high. This allows easy access for small birds up to robin-sized birds while deterring squirrels.
South or Southeast Facing
In colder climates, choose a location with a southern or southeasterly exposure. This warming sunlight helps attract birds on chilly days.
Near Water Source
Situate your feeder within about 15-20 feet of a water source like a pond or bird bath. This allows birds to easily get a drink after eating.
Filling and Cleaning Tips for Your Shoebox Bird Feeder
To keep birds happily returning to your DIY shoebox feeder, follow these tips for filling and maintenance:
Use Quality Bird Seed
Fill with a reputable brand of birdseed mix like Audubon, Kaytee, or Wagner’s that contain black oil sunflower seeds, millet, safflower, cracked corn, and other nutritious seeds birds naturally seek out. Avoid cheap “filler” seeds.
Prevent Feeder Fouling
Discard and replace wet, dirty seed that can grow mold. Clean the feeder box periodically with a mild soap and water solution. Rinse thoroughly.
Provide Correct Feeder Depth
Refill when seed gets very low, but don’t overfill. About 1-2 inches of seed depth is ideal so birds can easily reach it. Less waste occurs with shallow depths.
Deter Large Birds
Use metal guards over holes or hang feeders from wire to make it harder for large aggressive birds like grackles and starlings to monopolize feed.
Clean Feeders Regularly
Every few weeks, take feeders down to clean thoroughly with a bleach solution to prevent disease transmission between visiting birds. Rinse very well after cleaning.
Keep Feeders Dry
Choose covered feeders and hang under eaves or trees to prevent seed from getting sodden in rain and snow. Discard any dampened seed right away.
Bird Feeding FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about attracting birds with DIY shoebox feeders:
What birds will visit shoebox feeders?
Smaller songbirds like chickadees, sparrows, finches, wrens, and cardinals are most likely. Woodpeckers, blue jays, mourning doves, and blackbirds may also stop by.
How much birdseed do I need?
Start with a 5-10 pound bag of birdseed mix. Refill the 1-2 inches in your shoebox feeder as needed, about once a week or more depending on traffic. Use more seed in winter when birds eat more.
Does the feeder need a roof?
The shoebox’s own lid keeps seed protected from rain and snow. You can add a basic awning roof if desired using craft sticks or small boards.
How often should it be cleaned?
Discard wet seed immediately but otherwise clean every 2-4 weeks with mild soap and water and a bleach solution rinse. Clean more frequently if birds appear sick.
Where can I hang the feeder safely?
Use a tree branch, shepherd’s hook, pole, bracket, or place on a sturdy platform 5-7 feet off the ground. Ensure it won’t blow or easily detach in wind.
Will bird feed attract bears or other critters?
It’s rare, but possible. Avoid fruit/nut mixes. Only put out enough seed for a day and remove evening leftovers. Position feeders far from woods and brush.
Conclusion
Crafting your own bird feeder from a recycled shoebox is an easy, enjoyable way to start feeding feathered friends in your backyard. With just a few basic supplies and following the simple step-by-step tutorial above, you can make a cute DIY feeder that brings joy watching birds up close.
Remember to choose a sheltered location near trees and brush and regularly clean and fill your shoebox feeder to attract a diversity of beautiful birds. No matter your skill level, this simple bird feeding craft is sure to be satisfying for both you and your new backyard visitors. Bring a bit of nature to your doorstep and enjoy the show.