Welcome to a delightful DIY project perfect for bird enthusiasts! In this video, Shari Carroll from SimonSaysStamp.com demonstrates how to create birdseed ornaments—an ideal winter craft to hang on trees and bushes in your garden.
Follow along with this step-by-step guide to make your own birdseed ornaments and bring a smile to your feathered friends.
Materials Needed
- 2 cups of birdseed (wild birdseed with nuts and fruits recommended)
- 2 packets of Knox unflavored gelatin
- ½ cup of water
- Cookie cutters (or plastic/paper cups)
- Parchment paper
- Vegetable oil
- Paper straws
- Twine (approximately 12 inches long)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
First, gather all the materials you need. Shari uses wild birdseed, but you can choose any birdseed suitable for birds in your area.
Ensure you have unflavored gelatin, as colored or flavored gelatin may harm the birds. Cookie cutters are used to shape the ornaments, but you can also use plastic or paper cups if you prefer.
Step 2: Prepare the Gelatin
Heat half a cup of water in the microwave for 45 seconds. Pour the two packets of gelatin into a small mixing bowl.
Once the water is hot, add it to the gelatin and whisk until all lumps are dissolved. Ensure the gelatin fully dissolves; this will act as the binding agent for your birdseed mixture.
Step 3: Mix Gelatin and Birdseed
Pour the dissolved gelatin over the two cups of birdseed in a large mixing bowl. Use a spatula to mix thoroughly, ensuring the gelatin is evenly distributed throughout the birdseed. Make sure to scrape the bottom to pick up any settled gelatin.
Step 4: Prepare the Cookie Cutters
Place your cookie cutters on a sheet of parchment paper. Dip your finger in vegetable oil and coat the insides of each cookie cutter. This step helps to release the birdseed shapes easily once they firm up. If using plastic or paper cups, coat the insides similarly.
Step 5: Fill the Cookie Cutters
Scoop the birdseed mixture into the cookie cutters. It’s okay if some falls out—this is why we use parchment paper!
Pack the mixture firmly into the cookie cutter using your fingers, a piece of parchment paper, or a spatula. The firmer you pack the mixture, the better the ornaments will hold together.
Step 6: Insert the Straws
Cut a paper straw into four pieces. Insert a piece into the thickest part of each ornament to create a hole for the twine.
Make sure the straw is embedded well so that it can support the weight of the ornament when hung.
Step 7: Firm Up the Mixture
Place the filled cookie cutters in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This allows the gelatin to firm up and hold the shape. After 15 minutes, remove the tray and gently press around the straws to ensure everything is packed tightly.
Step 8: Remove and Add Twine
Carefully remove the birdseed shapes from the cookie cutters by pressing your thumb on the seeds and lifting the cutter.
Next, take a 12-inch piece of twine, fold it in half, and feed the folded end through the straw hole. Pull the straw out, bringing the twine through the ornament. Tie a lariat knot followed by an overhand knot at the top to create a loop for hanging.
Step 9: Hang Your Ornaments
Your birdseed ornaments are now ready to hang! Place them on bushes or trees in your garden where birds can easily access them.
These ornaments are best for cold weather, as the gelatin may melt if temperatures exceed 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 10: Store Extras
This recipe makes six ornaments. You can hang a few and store the rest in the refrigerator or freezer for future use. Just thaw and hang them when you’re ready.
Enjoy watching the birds flock to your homemade treats! For more detailed instructions and a written supply list, be sure to check out the blog post linked below.
Conclusion
Making these birdseed ornaments is not only fun but also a wonderful way to support local wildlife during winter. Enjoy crafting and watching your new feathered friends enjoy their treats!