Making bird legs out of pipe cleaners is a fun and easy craft project that can be done with simple materials. Pipe cleaners, also known as chenille stems, are fuzzy and flexible wires that can be bent and shaped into different objects. With a bit of twisting and sculpting, pipe cleaners can be transformed into delicate bird legs. This craft is great for kids and adults alike and can be customized in many ways. In this article, we will go over the supplies needed and step-by-step instructions for making basic bird legs out of pipe cleaners. We will also provide tips for customizing your pipe cleaner bird legs. So if you are ready to learn how to make a charming bird leg craft, keep reading!
Supplies Needed
To make pipe cleaner bird legs you will need:
- Pipe cleaners in various colors
- Scissors
- Ruler or tape measure (optional)
- Glue (optional)
- Googly eyes (optional)
- Felt or fabric for feet (optional)
Pipe cleaners are the main supply needed for this craft. You can find them in craft stores, dollar stores, and even some grocery and convenience stores. Get an assortment of colors so you can make colorful bird legs. The fuzzy texture of pipe cleaners gives them a natural bird leg look when twisted into shape. Other supplies like scissors, glue, and googly eyes are optional for adding detail and decorating your pipe cleaner legs.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make simple bird legs out of pipe cleaners:
- Take one pipe cleaner and fold it in half to make a “V” shape.
- At the folded end, twist the two wires together a few times to join them.
- Spread apart the two legs at the open end of the “V” to form the shape of two bird legs.
- Bend each leg at the “knee” and “ankle” joints.
- Twist the ends of each “foot” closed.
- Shape and adjust the legs until you have the desired bird leg form.
Those are the basics for making a simple pair of bird legs! You can make them any length or thickness you like. Add a second folded pipe cleaner inside the “V” joint for thicker legs. Use a ruler or measuring tape to make legs a specific length if desired. The steps can be repeated to make as many pairs of legs as needed.
Decorating Your Bird Legs
Plain pipe cleaner legs are charming on their own, but you can get creative and decorate them too:
- Glue on googly eyes near the “knee” joint for personality.
- Wrap ends of the “feet” with felt or fabric for an extra detail.
- Color the legs with permanent markers for more vibrant colors.
- Glitter glue can add sparkle and shine to the legs.
- Attach bells or jingle bells to the feet for sound effects.
Let your imagination run wild when decorating your pipe cleaner bird legs! The fuzzy texture takes glue and craft materials well for adding all kinds of creative touches.
Craft Project Ideas
Now that you know how to make the bird legs, here are some fun craft projects you can use them for:
Pipe Cleaner Birds
Use your handmade legs to create an entire miniature pipe cleaner bird. Bend and twist pipe cleaners into the shape of a body, head, and tail. Glue or wire on your legs, some folded wing shapes, and decorative eyes and beak. Sit your pipe cleaner bird creation on a branch or craft stick.
Leg Garland
Make a string of bird legs to decorate a room or tree. Follow the leg instructions using small pipe cleaners, leaving long ends instead of twisting them closed. Tie the open ends to a ribbon or string to create a colorful leg garland to hang.
Leg Scene
Build a fun scene or sculpture using multiple sets of bird legs. Glue legs onto a base, branch, or box to create an interesting 3D art piece. Get creative with the scene and use items like miniature nests, eggs, flowers, etc.
Hand Puppets
Slip your pipe cleaner bird legs over your fingers to make fun hand puppets. Decorate the legs to look like different breeds of birds. Move your hand to make the bird legs hop and fly around.
Wearable Art
Use lightweight floral wire to make wearable bird leg ankle bracelets or rings. Shape and decorate the legs, then attach to jewelry findings. The bird legs make unique fashion statements.
Tips
Follow these helpful tips when crafting with pipe cleaner bird legs:
- Use pliers to twist pipe cleaners for a tighter hold.
- Apply hot glue inside joints for extra stability.
- Shape and adjust legs over a wire sculpture base for support.
- Store unused legs in an envelope or bag so they don’t unwind.
- Use wire cutters for thicker floral wire if regular scissors don’t cut it.
Conclusion
Creating bird legs out of pipe cleaners is an easy, fun craft for all ages. With just pipe cleaners, scissors, and a little creativity, you can shape charming miniature bird legs. Use the legs to make whimsical bird figures, garlands, sculptures, puppets, jewelry, and more. The fuzzy, malleable texture of pipe cleaners brings these legs to life. Follow the basic instructions and add your own unique decorations. So next time you need an arts and crafts project, why not give pipe cleaner bird legs a try? Your imagination is the limit!