13 DIY Upcycled Bird Feeder Ideas

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🐩 10 DIY Upcycled Bird Feeder Ideas: Charming Ways to Reuse & Invite Nature In

If you’re a DIY lover with a green thumb and a soft spot for birds, you’re going to love these DIY upcycled bird feeder ideas! These creative and sustainable bird feeders give a second life to everyday items while adding rustic charm to your garden or balcony. Whether you’re working with teacups, mason jars, or tin cans, this list is all about turning trash into treasure—for the birds and your backyard.

1. Teacup & Saucer Bird Feeder

Pinterest Style Vibe: Whimsical, cottagecore, floral charm

There’s something timeless and beautiful about upcycled vintage teacups. Glue a porcelain teacup sideways onto its matching saucer using waterproof adhesive. Hang it with twine or screw it onto a post. The cup holds the seeds while the saucer catches the mess or serves as a perch.

Why It Works:

  • Aesthetic appeal
  • Great for small birds like finches
  • Ideal for romantic garden corners or balconies

Bonus Tip: Use floral or pastel cups for extra charm and match them to your outdoor décor.

2. Mason Jar Seed Dispenser

Pinterest Style Vibe: Rustic farmhouse, minimal effort, maximum impact

Mason jars are DIY royalty. Attach a chicken feeder base to the jar opening, fill it with seeds, and flip it upside down. Mount the jar onto a wooden board and hang or screw it to a post.

Why It Works:

  • Controlled seed flow
  • Keeps seed dry
  • Great for year-round use
See also  11 DIY Wooden Bird Feeder Plans and Ideas

Bonus Tip: Paint the jar lid in chalk white or sage green for that modern rustic look.

3. Wine Bottle Hanging Feeder

Pinterest Style Vibe: Boho chic with eco-conscious flair

Repurpose an old wine bottle into a gravity-fed bird feeder. Use copper wire or rope to create a cradle that lets the bottle hang upside down above a shallow dish.

Why It Works:

  • Uses gravity to dispense seed
  • Elegant and space-saving
  • Glass keeps seeds fresh and visible

Bonus Tip: Add macramé-style knots to the wire for that Pinterest-worthy finish.

4. Tin Can Swing Feeder

Pinterest Style Vibe: Playful, budget-friendly, family fun

Paint and decorate an empty tin can. Attach ropes on both ends to hang it horizontally, fill the can with birdseed, and let the birds swing their way to lunch.

Why It Works:

  • Super simple
  • Great project for kids
  • Encourages balance and play for birds

Bonus Tip: Use non-toxic spray paint in pastel shades and stencils to decorate!

5. Old Boot Bird Feeder

Pinterest Style Vibe: Quirky, upcycled, garden art

Take an old boot, fill it halfway with soil or rocks for stability, then pour birdseed into the top. Prop it on a stand or hang it with thick twine. It’s a conversation starter and a treat station all in one.

Why It Works:

  • Creative reuse
  • Holds a good amount of seed
  • Adds character to any rustic setup

Bonus Tip: Seal the inside with waterproof spray if using leather boots.

6. Plastic Bottle Gravity Feeder

Pinterest Style Vibe: Practical, eco-conscious, beginner-friendly

Don’t toss your soda bottles—upcycle them! Cut feeding holes near the bottom, insert wooden spoons through the holes (for perches), and fill the bottle with seeds.

See also  11 DIY Wooden Bird Feeder Plans and Ideas

Why It Works:

  • Simple mechanics
  • Ideal for teaching kids about sustainability
  • Refillable and weather-resistant

Bonus Tip: Decorate with acrylic paints or washi tape for a more Pinterest-ready look.

7. Colander Hanging Feeder

Pinterest Style Vibe: Vintage kitchen garden, airy, cheerful

Turn a metal colander into a bird feeder by hanging it with chains or jute rope. Add coconut liner or burlap inside and fill it with birdseed. The holes help drain rainwater too!

Why It Works:

  • Functional and breathable
  • Looks charming with rustic garden themes
  • Easy to clean

Bonus Tip: Add some fake vines or ribbon bows around the handle for décor.

8. Upcycled Lamp Bird Table

Pinterest Style Vibe: Shabby chic, repurposed elegance

Have a broken or outdated table lamp? Remove the wiring and bulb, paint the base, and glue a dish or shallow bowl on top. You now have a unique pedestal bird feeder.

Why It Works:

  • Makes a stylish statement
  • Great centerpiece for patio or garden tables
  • Heavy and stable

Bonus Tip: Use gold spray paint and a porcelain plate for a luxurious twist.

9. Coconut Shell Bird Bowl

Pinterest Style Vibe: Natural, tropical, eco-luxe

Cut a dried coconut shell in half, smooth the edges, drill holes for twine, and hang it like a swing. Fill it with seed or even bits of fruit. It blends right into nature.

Why It Works:

  • Naturally waterproof
  • Minimalist and biodegradable
  • Perfect for small gardens or balconies

Bonus Tip: Rub the shell with coconut oil for a glossy finish.

10. Old China Plate Bird Buffet

Pinterest Style Vibe: Elegant garden tea party

Don’t throw away cracked or mismatched china! Glue a plate onto an inverted teacup or wooden base to make a beautiful flat feeder. Add crushed sunflower seeds and breadcrumbs.

See also  11 DIY Wooden Bird Feeder Plans and Ideas

Why It Works:

  • Flat plate is easy for multiple birds
  • Upcycles broken china beautifully
  • Adds vintage charm

Bonus Tip: Combine multiple mismatched plates in tiers for a “cake-stand” look.

🌿 Finishing Touches for Your Upcycled Feeders

To truly make your feeder Pinterest-perfect, consider adding the following elements:

  • Hand-painted Labels: Use chalkboard paint and cute handwritten signs
  • Jute Rope or MacramĂ© Hangers: Give it that trendy boho appeal
  • Mini Chalk Tags: Label them with the types of seeds inside
  • Dried Flowers, Ribbons, or Faux Vines: Extra charm without extra cost
  • Mini Roofs or Covers: Protect seed and add flair using scrap wood or thrifted lids

đŸ› ïž Safety & Sustainability Tips

  • Always clean feeders weekly to avoid mold or bacteria
  • Use non-toxic materials and adhesives
  • Avoid sharp edges or toxic paints
  • Place feeders away from predator zones (not too close to shrubs or fences)

đŸ„ The Joy of DIY Bird Feeders

Not only are these projects fun, but they also promote eco-conscious living, waste reduction, and a deeper connection with nature. You’ll love seeing your feathered friends return each day to enjoy the cozy stations you’ve crafted.

Whether you’re sipping coffee on your porch, tending your herb garden, or photographing your DIY projects for Pinterest, these upcycled bird feeders add life, charm, and sustainability to your outdoor space.

💡 Final Thoughts

Pinterest is full of stunning bird feeder inspiration—but when you make your own with love and recycled materials, it becomes more than a craft. It’s a symbol of creativity, care for the planet, and welcoming nature into your world.

Which idea will you try first?