Coffee Cup Homemade Bird Feeder

I love to sit and revive myself with a nice cup of coffee now and then. I spent an afternoon thrift shopping and found just the right cup and saucer to create the perfect homemade bird feeder. A trip to the hardware store provided everything else I needed. The next time I take my morning brew out to the patio, I can lift a cup in salute as I share the experience with my avian neighbors!

Step-By-Step Instructions:

Step 1

Wearing safety glasses, drill a hole through the center of your cup and another through the saucer. To help center the bit while I started the hole, I secured a washer to the center of the piece with masking tape. This part takes patience. Apply only gentle pressure to avoid cracking. Earthenware is easier to drill than stoneware.

Step 2

Spray-paint the threaded rod your desired color. I chose black to blend into the background, but you could coordinate the rod with the cups if you prefer. Paint the first few inches lightly to avoid filling in the threads. Allow to dry.

Step 3

Choose the location of your feeder. Decide how far off the ground you want it to be. If protection from predators is an issue, the feeder needs to be at least 4 ft. high. I cut 1 ft. from the 6-ft. rod with a hacksaw. Once you’ve cut the rod to length, push it into the ground. If you use something to pound the rod into the ground, place a piece of wooden board between your pounder and the end threads to protect the threads from damage, which would make it difficult to screw on the nuts.

Step 4

Screw the nut about 2 in. onto the rod. Top with a metal washer, then a rubber washer. Place the saucer and then the cup onto the assembly through the holes you have drilled. Inside the cup, add the second rubber washer, then the second metal washer. Last, gently tighten the wing nut to secure your feeder.

Step 5

Tip: To remove feeder for cleaning, simply unscrew the wing nut. Fill with seeds for the birds and go put the kettle on for yourself!