

There are several types and styles of bird feeders you can build. This project describes how to build a simple bird feeder that resembles a small house with a hinged roof, that tapers slightly at the bottom, similar to the one shown here. Begin by cutting end panels from your boards using a table saw. Cut each piece so that the panel width tapers toward the base from 5" at its widest to 3½" at the bottom. The panels should be cut to be 7½" in length, with the tops cut at a 90-degree angle so that they are "pointed" like a triangle.
Create grooves in the outside edges of these panels by cutting into them ½" from the edges and at a ¼" depth. These grooves will fit the "windows" on the sides of the feeder.
Next, cut two pieces for the feeder's roof. One piece will be 4½" x 9" and the second will be 5½" x 9" to form rectangular shaped slats. The feeder base should be cut at 5½" x 9". Cut thin strips of wood to be ¼" x 1 ¼". You will attach these along the outer edge of the base to create a lip that will keep birdseed on the feeder and allow the birds to perch.
Measure and cut two pieces of acrylic sheeting for the "windows." These pieces will fit into the grooves you made in the end panels. Before making your cuts, remember to leave a space at the bottom of the acrylic pieces (about 1") for the seed to spill out onto the shelf for the birds.