Festive Bird Feeders

Christmas is upon us. You've wrapped the gifts. Got the turkey out of the freezer. You've visited your family and friends. 

Maybe you want to do something a bit different. You'd like to make something with the kids. Maybe you need them distracted for a little while. Well, this little craft is ideal. Although, please be aware it can get a little messy!

To make these festive bird feeders you will need

• Bird seed - £1 @ Wilko
• Festive shaped cutters - £1 @ Home Bargains and Poundland
• Gelatin - £1.19 @ Asda
• Peanut Butter 99p @ Lidl
• Chopping bowl
• Mixing bowl
• Mixing spoon
• Jug
• Hot water
• Straws 
• String
• Scissors

To start you will need to establish how much bird feed you need. To do this I laid out the cutters on the chopping board and poured the seed into them and this gave the amount required.

Next, make up the gelatin in the mixing bowl as per the directions.

Add the bird seed and stir well. 

Spoon into the cutters.

Using the scissors, cut the straw and cut into short lengths. Place in the shape where you'd like the hole for the string to be.

Place in the fridge for a minimum of 2 hours but preferably overnight.

When removed from the fridge loosen the shapes from the board. Also, carefully push the straws all the way through the seed so it goes through the other side. Remove the cutters.

Using the spoon, or a spatula if you have one, smear the peanut butter on to parts of the bird seed shapes.

I know from the feeders I have previously made that birds and squirrels love peanut butter!

Cut the string into the lengths you require for hanging the shapes. Inset the string through the hole and knot. 

Hang outside in a safe place and away from predators. Don't worry if you forget the holes or the shapes break up, simple place them on the tree.

That's it! You are done! You've made a festive dinner for the birds.

Happy crafting!

Mummy Snowy Owl

xx