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Easy $5 Cedar Bird Feeder

Build this charming cedar bird feeder using just one cedar fence picket! It's an easy and fun woodworking project that's perfect for kids or beginners learning to use tools. This low-cost project (under $5 in materials) makes a great gift or item to sell at farmers markets. Download the with step-by-step diagrams and a full cut list to get started today!

Easy $5 Cedar Bird Feeder

Specifications

Project typeOutdoor Projects
RoomOutdoor
StyleChildren's and Kid's Room Furniture and Toy Plans
DifficultyStarter Projects
Estimated costUnder $20

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Easy $5 Cedar Bird Feeder dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 1 cedar fence picket 5 1/2" wide x 72" long - can be dogeared. Expected thickness is 1/2" - but plan accounts for varying widths exterior wood glue suitable for oily woods
  • 1 1/4" finish nails or small screws
  • For hanging an eye-hook can be used

Cut List

Cut the following from the cedar fence picket:

  • 2 - 7 3/4" (cut to gable end point at 45 degree angles) - gable walls
  • 1 - 7" - floor
  • 1 - 10" (rip 1/2" off one edge to make width 5") - shorter roof
  • 1 - 10" - longer roof
  • 1 - ~8" (Measure and cut to fit as this may vary slightly depending on thickness of wood. Then from this board, cut two strips 1 1/2" wide for finished measurement of ~8" by 1 1/2")

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • circular saw
  • compound miter saw
  • nailer
  • countersink drill bit

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

Attach walls to the bottom using 1-1/4" brad nails and wood glue, or screws.

Easy $5 Cedar Bird Feeder — step 1
2

Step 2

Attach shorter roof to walls.

Easy $5 Cedar Bird Feeder — step 2
3

Step 3

Attach wider roof to walls and shorter roof.

Easy $5 Cedar Bird Feeder — step 3
4

Step 4

Attach side rails to sides.

Easy $5 Cedar Bird Feeder — step 4
5

Finishing

Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.

Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/easy-5-cedar-bird-feeder-free-plans-great-beginner-woodworking-project