DIY

DIY Tin Can Flower Bird Feeder

A great DIY for spring and a craft the kids can help with too!

Repurpose tin cans to make this cute yet functional bird feeder!

Materials:

Clean, opened tin cans with labels removed
Spray paint in choice of colors
Pre-cut 6-in. wide foam flowers (available at most craft stores)
Large wooden or plastic beads
Thick twine

Tools:

Drill with drill bits or metal punch
Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Step-By-Step Instructions:

Step 1

On the side of each tin can, use a ruler to measure about a 1/4-in. from each end in a straight line. Then mark a dot at each of these points with a permanent marker. Use a drill or metal punch to make holes about 1/4-in. wide where the marked dots are. These two holes are where you will insert the twine for making a hanger later on.

Step 2

In a well-ventilated area, spray paint the outside of your tin cans in various colors. Apply as many coats as needed for full coverage and let dry 24-48 hours.

Step 3

Lay the open end of each can centered on a foam flower. Trace around the circle opening with a pencil. Centered inside the circle either freehand or use a compass to draw another circle about a 1/2 inch smaller all around. Then use a ruler to draw several crisscrossing straight lines inside the original traced circle (like the way a pizza is cut). First cut out the small inner circle. Then cut along each crisscrossing line, stopping at the traced outline of the original circle. This will make several tabs around the inner perimeter.

Step 4

Lay the foam flower face down on a flat surface. Apply a ring of hot glue around the perimeter of the traced circle. Then place the open end of the can aligned on top of the hot glue ring. Hold the can firmly in place until the glue dries. Hot glue each of the cut tabs down on the interior of the can rim to further secure the foam flower in place.

Emma Dunn