Monday, August 20, 2012

Lamp Birdbath

I wanted a bird bath for my yard, But I didn't want to pay an astronomical amount for it either. So I went to google and found a couple of random DIY birdbaths that I liked. Using those, I came up with my own birdbath.
Lamp Birdbath Tutorial:
Supplies:
-lamp
-bowl or wok
-Liquid Nails
-spraypaint
First, cut the cord off the lamp. I also took the long handle off the wok.
Next, spray-paint the lamp and bowl/wok. Let the paint dry before you handle it.
Once the paint is dry, dab some Liquid nails onto the brim of the lamp. Next, place the wok on the lamp so it is centered. Let it dry for 24 hours.
Lastly, find a nice place for the bird bath in your yard...
I put mine next to the bird feeder I hung up last week. Let me just say that I am the hit of the neighborhood with the birds...
This project cost me $12. I found the lamp and the wok at my local thrift store...

Monday, August 13, 2012

Sundance Birds

Sundance Birds Tutorial:

My neighbor saw these birds in the Sundance Magazine:
She loved them and wanted a set, but didn't want to pay the $150 price-tag, so she asked me if I could make some for her... so I did!
First, you need to make a pattern (not shown) then you need to trace the pattern onto some wood. I used a cedar fence slat. Then cut out the birds using a scroll saw.
After you have sanded the birds, slap some stain on them and wipe off the excess.
I then painted the birds exactly like the magazine picture. To make them grungy, dis-stress by sanding.
When cutting out the birds, be sure to cut out back boards and a bottom perch boards.
Sand, stain and paint these as well.
Next, use a nail gun and attach the perch pieces to the back boards.
Now, nail the bodies onto the back boards.
The best way to attach the legs is to glue them on with wood glue. I didn't want to try nailing it because I thought the nail would split them in half.
Now, stand back and admire your finished product.
Mr. Blue Bird
Mr. Rooster
and Mr. Cardinal
My neighbor said that she is going to have her husband attach them to posts, so she can put them in her garden...