A Fine Feathered Feeder

DIY project for your garden or balcony.

Now that winter’s in the rear-view mirror, celebrate spring with this bird feeder. Supplies Needed muffin tin, birdseed, flour, corn syrup, powdered gelatin, wooden skewers and ribbon. Step 1 Source a muffin tin for your mould. I found a non-stick heart-shaped tray that was perfect for the DIY. Keep the mould basic, since you want to make it easy to remove the bird feeders. Step 2 Next, make the birdseed mixture. There are a few different recipes out there, so you may need to experiment to find the right one. The one I used included the following ingredients: • 1 L (4 cups) birdseed • 175 ml (¾ cup) flour • 45 ml (3 tbsp) corn syrup • 60 ml (¼ cup) hot water mixed with a sachet of powdered gelatin Combine all ingredients and mix well. Step 3 Add mixture to the muffin tin. Once you’ve filled the moulds, insert a skewer in each one to create the hole for your ribbon. Step 4 Once the bird feeders have set, remove the skewers and gently remove the bird feeders from the muffin tin. With a darning needle, thread ribbon through the hole. Tie the ends of the ribbon and you’re done! You can modify this project by using other second-hand items, such as cookie cutters, small tins or even an ice cube tray—all of which can be found at your local Salvation Army thrift store.

(left) Denise Corcoran (aka Thrifty By Design) is an author, upcycler, community builder and workshop facilitator based in North Vancouver. She shares her enthusiasm for crafting and upcycling by facilitating “Crafternoons” throughout Vancouver. She is also a creative expert for The Salvation Army’s thrift stores. Find a thrift store near you at thriftstore.ca.

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