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How to Build a Birdfeeder With an Octagon Roof

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This simple, octagon-shaped birdfeeder can be built using a few common tools such as hammer, nails, and wood glue. Measurements aren't incredibly important since the size of the birdfeeder can be easily adjusted depending on the pieces of wood at hand. It's a very affordable, rewarding project nearly any adult can complete in a matter of hours. Hang the feeder from a porch, in front of a window, or from a tree branch, and enjoy the sight of birds feeding from it for years to come.

Cut out two octagon-shaped pieces of wood the same size using a hand saw. Sand the edges of one of the octagons.

Saw 8 pieces of dowel rod the same length, about 6 inches tall, to make the side poles of the birdfeeder.

Match up the corners of the octagon roof and octagon bottom. Glue the 8 poles into the very inside of each corner of the bottom octagon using wood glue. Allow to dry for a couple of hours.

Dab wood glue on to the tops of the 8 dowel rods and set the octagon roof on top of it. Allow to dry for a couple of hours.

Hammer one small nail through the bottom of the octagon into each rod for added security. Repeat for the tops of the rods.

Saw 8, 2-inch by 1-inch-thick pieces of wood at a 45 degree angle so they meet perfectly to create an octagon-shaped frame to frame the octagon bottom of the birdfeeder. Glue in place on the outer edge of the bottom octagon (that hasn't been sanded). This will create a ledge and help contain birdseed within the feeder.

Screw a small eye hook to the center top of the birdfeeder roof and loop rope or chain through it to hang from a tree. Or use another eye hook screwed upside-down underneath a wood beam to hang your new birdfeeder.

Things You'll Need:

  • 2 pieces wood, octagon-shaped, 1/4-inch-thick
  • Tape measure
  • Hand saw
  • Sandpaper
  • Dowel rod, 48-inch long, 1-inch diameter
  • Wood glue
  • Hammer
  • 16 small nails
  • 1-inch by 2-inch-thick wood octagon frame
  • 2 eye hooks
  • Rope or chain

Tip

Try decorating the roof by attaching small wooden shingles using wood glue.

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