How to Build a Birdhouse
A perfect activity to bring children together with their parents or grandparents, or a relaxing way to connect with nature, building a birdhouse can be easy! Whether you plan to use your finished product as an indoor decoration, a garden garnish, or a functional home for your winged backyard friends, your birdhouse will show your craftsmanship and remind you of the fun time you had making it.
Make a Plan
First, decide whether your birdhouse will be purely functional or decorative. While colorful and decorative birdhouses are a joy to look at, birds prefer to make their homes in more natural, plain and weathered unpainted houses. If you are serious about attracting birds to your finished product, do some research on the types of birds you are interested in. Otherwise, you might consider the size and color you want your birdhouse to be.
Gather Materials
Once you have a plan, gather your materials. You will need enough wood for the floor, four walls, and roof of your birdhouse. In addition to wood, you’ll need galvanized screws, nails, sandpaper, wood glue, paint, polyurethane finish, and a dowel to serve as a perch at the door of your little house. In addition to your materials, you’ll need tools. While constructing your birdhouse will be easier with the assistance of power tools, many people find satisfaction in using hand tools to put a more personal touch into their creation. Whether powered by electricity or human labor, you’ll need a saw (either hand, band, table, or scroll), a drill, a hammer, a tape measure, a carpenter square, a screwdriver, and a paintbrush. Gather your materials before you begin construction to ensure you have everything you need.
Safety First
While it’s important for everyone attempting this crafty endeavor to consider safety, those working with children need to be especially aware of the safety precautions. This is a great opportunity to discuss the importance of tool safety with your children or grandchildren. Work in a well ventilated area, and be sure to wear protective equipment such as gloves, goggles or safety glasses, and closed-toe shoes. Avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing. Be particularly conscious of safety around the power tools and/or handsaw. With a few precautions, this activity will be safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Cut & Assemble
Once you have your plan, your materials, and your wits about you, begin construction. First, measure your wood and use your carpenter square to ensure right angles. Mark your birdhouse’s dimensions on the wood. Be sure to measure twice so you only have to cut once. Once everything is measured out, cut your pieces. Before attaching any of the pieces together, go ahead and cut the hole for the bird entrance and the little perch just beneath it. Use the wood glue and nails to assemble the pieces. Don’t forget to leave the bottom unglued for easy removal for cleaning between seasons. Sand the birdhouse, then decorate according to your predetermined plan. Congratulations! You’ve built a birdhouse!
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Posted in Building and Remodeling, Home and Garden
