How to Make Bird Feeders Out of Bread

Using stale bread to make bird feeders is economical and provides a good lesson on recycling. It's also a safe project for kids, as it requires no dangerous equipment and makes good use of things you most likely have around the house.

Things You'll Need

  • Sliced bread
  • Plastic drinking straw
  • Cookie cutters
  • Butter knife
  • Waxed paper
  • Peanut butter or solid shortening
  • Bird seed
  • Cookie pan
  • Heavy string or yarn
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Instructions

  1. Making the Feeders

    • 1

      Remove the bread slices from the package and spread them out on a counter or table to dry overnight. Cut the bread into fancy shapes using the cookie cutters or leave the slices whole.

    • 2

      Use the straw to poke a hole through the bread about 3/4 of an inch from the top. Spread a layer of bird seed on a sheet of waxed paper.

    • 3

      Place a piece of waxed paper on the cookie pan. Spread peanut butter or shortening on both sides of the bread, then dip the coated sides in the bird seed.

    • 4

      Lay the bread shapes on the cookie pan and place in the refrigerator until the coating is firm. This could take several hours. Cut a small piece of waxed paper and place it on one side of the bread shapes. Press down gently but firmly to push the seeds deeper into the coating.

    • 5

      Cut yarn or string into 12-inch pieces. Remove bread shapes from pan and pass the string or yarn through the holes. Tie the ends together, and your bird feeders are ready to hang outside.