Here is a set of bird feeder plans and designs, free from the How-To Library at Lowes.com.
Bird Feeder 1
Tools:
- jig saw
- drill or driver with bits
- screw driver
- hammer and nails
- clamps (1 1” capacity)
- sandpaper and file
- paint (optional)
- dust mask
- goggles
- hearing protection
Materials:
- 1 x 2 boards (rated for outdoor use)
o 1- 12 1/2"
o 2 - 8 1/4"
o 2 - 8"
- 3" PVC drain pipe
11" long
140° segment
- 5/16" dowel
4 - 12 1/2" long (4)
- 1/4" thick oriented strand board or weatherproof plywood, 9" x 14"
- 3 - 1" screws
- 2 - 1/2" screw eyes
- 4 - 1 1/2" brads
- Wood glue
- 3 – 3/8” rope
Steps:
1. Cut the pvc pipe. Saw the roof pieces and other sections using the dimensions provided.
2. Drill starter holes for screws, screw eyes and brads. Countersink the screw holes.
3. Clamp the base pieces together. Drill holes for the dowels.
4. Glue the strut (1x2) under the roof. Secure using 3 screws.
5. Join the tops of the 1x2 side pieces to the roof and the roof strut. Do this using glue and brads.
6. Install the screw eyes.
7. Cut the dowels to lengths that match the assembly. Fit into the holes in the base.
8. Paint the roof. (optional step)
9. Mount the pipe segment in the middle of the central dowels. Fasten the rope to screw eyes for hanging.
Bird Feeder 2
Tools:
- jig saw
- drill or driver with bits
- screw driver
- hammer and nails
- clamps (1 1” capacity)
- sandpaper and file
- dust mask
- goggles
- hearing protection
- paint (optional)
Materials
- Treated 1 x 2 board
6" long (2)
- 3" PVC drain pipe
10" long
140° and 65° segments
- 1" screws (2)
- 1/2" screw eyes (2)
- 3/8" rope (3')
• For optional base and perches
- 1x 2 board, treated
2- 6” long
- 5/16” dowel
2 – 11 1” long
- 4 – 1 1” brads
Steps:
1. Cut pvc pipe, segments for the roof and the tray using the dimensions given.
2. Cut the end pieces. Shape ends to go with the inside diameter of the pipe.
3. Drill starter holes into the pipe segments and 1x2s for the screw eyes and screws. Countersink screws.
4. Connect the pipe segments to the 1x2 board. This is shown in the diagram.
5. Tie the rope, threading through the screw eyes for hanging.
6. Paint the roof. (Optional Step)
Steps to add the optional base and perches:
1. Cut and shape the pieces for the base.
2. Drill the holes for the perches and drill starter holes for the brads.
3. Attach the base to the end pieces using glue and brads.
4. Cut the dowels to suit the length and insert in the holes.
Bird Feeder 2 can be used as a hanging feeder or you can install the base and the perches and set it up anywhere you want.
To find more details on these plans, you can visit www.Lowes.com and enter the search key words “build a bird feeder.” These plans are of an intermediate skill level, and will need the use of some power tools like saws and drills. Remember, safety comes first, so always wear your safety goggles.
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