DIY Bird Feeder Craft: Easy & Engaging for Campers

Updated at: 09/06/2025

Connecting with nature is a fundamental part of the camping experience, and what better way to enhance that connection than by attracting the local avian residents? Building your own bird feeder not only provides a delightful wildlife-watching opportunity but also offers a rewarding craft activity, perfect for all ages and skill levels. Forget expensive, pre-made feeders; this DIY project utilizes readily available materials often found around campsites or easily packed for your trip, ensuring a sustainable and engaging experience for everyone. The simplicity of the design means even the youngest campers can participate and contribute to this enriching outdoor activity.

This easy and engaging bird feeder craft is perfect for a rainy afternoon at the campsite or a fun pre-dinner activity. Learn to create a beautiful and functional feeder using simple materials and techniques, attracting feathered friends to your campsite and adding a unique dimension to your camping adventure. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Wooden dowel
  • Two-party spoons
  • Tape
  • Twine/Yarn
  • Terracotta pot
  • Wild bird seed
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise children during the crafting and hanging of bird feeders. Small parts pose a choking hazard.
  • Use non-toxic materials only. Avoid paints, glues, or finishes that could harm birds if ingested.
  • Hang feeders in a location away from predators (cats) and out of reach of children. Securely fasten to prevent falls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base

    • Prepare the spoon slots and holes for the wooden dowel.
    • Break the two-party spoons, leaving about 1.5 inches from the base.
    • Tape the two spoon handles together securely.
    Tape the two spoon handles together securely.Tape the two spoon handles together securely.Tape the two spoon handles together securely.
    Prepare the Base

  2. Assemble the Feeder Body

    • Insert the dowel into the prepared holes.
    • Insert the taped spoons into the slots.
    • Feed the twine/yarn underneath the dowel.
    Feed the twine/yarn underneath the dowel.Feed the twine/yarn underneath the dowel.Feed the twine/yarn underneath the dowel.
    Assemble the Feeder Body

  3. Fill and Top

    • Feed the twine/yarn through the hole in the terracotta pot.
    • Fill the terracotta pot with wild bird seed.
    • Place the filled terracotta pot on top of the dowel and spoons.
    Place the filled terracotta pot on top of the dowel and spoons.Place the filled terracotta pot on top of the dowel and spoons.Place the filled terracotta pot on top of the dowel and spoons.
    Fill and Top

  4. Hang the Feeder

    • Hang the bird feeder from a tree.
    Hang the bird feeder from a tree.
    Hang the Feeder

Read more: DIY Story Stones: Budget-Friendly Sensory Play for Kids

Tips

  • Ensure the taped spoons are secure by adding extra tape.
  • Use twine for a sturdier bird feeder.
  • Allow campers to paint the terracotta pot beforehand for added personalization.
  • Campers can help with inserting spoons, pouring seeds, and assembling the final structure.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the wrong type of string or wire

Reason: Weak or thin string/wire can break under the weight of the feeder and the birds, leading to a messy cleanup and potential harm to the birds.
Solution: Use strong, thick twine or wire specifically designed for outdoor use.

2. Poorly secured food container

Reason: If the container isn't securely attached, it might fall off, scattering food and rendering the feeder useless.
Solution: Use strong glue, wire, or sturdy fasteners to ensure the food container is firmly attached to the base.

FAQs

What kind of birdseed should I use in my DIY bird feeder?
A good mix of seeds is best! Sunflower seeds are a popular choice with many birds, but you can also add nyjer seeds (for finches), cracked corn, and millet. Avoid using bread crumbs or anything salty, as these aren't healthy for birds.