DIY A Charming Feeder That Birds Will Love With An Old Chandelier

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A chandelier can add a touch of elegance to a room. Yet, there might come a point when you're ready to try different types of light fixtures, or perhaps your chandelier has seen better days. If this is the case, the birds are in luck! Instead of tossing it in the donation pile, you can turn an old chandelier into a unique bird feeder that'll help attract them to your yard. Chandeliers are known for having multiple arms with lights sitting on top of them. For this project, just picture containers of birdseed in place of the bulbs. Not only will your feathered friends adore it, but it'll bring a bit of whimsy to your outdoor space, too.

You could always head to a thrift store if you don't have an old chandelier. It's a common item you often see hanging out with the lamps and other light fixtures. Don't worry if it seems like its electrical parts are broken, as you're going to be removing all the wires anyways. A thrift store is also a great spot to search for little bowls you can affix to the chandeliers' arms. Find matching ones or grab a variety for an eclectic look. This set of FZENeast Mini Glass Bowls at Walmart is another option. To create the bird feeder, you'll also need wire cutters, spray paint, and a heavy-duty adhesive (like Gorilla Glue Epoxy).

The first step is to gut your chandelier of its electrical components. Remember that it should be disconnected. Carefully remove the lightbulbs, sockets, and snip off the wires. What you do want to leave are the dish-like parts at the end of the arms (the bobeches). They are what you'll be attaching the birdseed bowls to. Next, clean up the chandelier really well to remove any dirt or grime. You can now give it a makeover with paint, such as Rust-Oleum Spray Paint, picking a color that'll complement your other yard decor.

Wash and dry your small bowls so they're clean for the birds. Paint them if you want before gluing them to the chandelier's bobeches. Add as many as you'd like, filling the piece completely or using just a few. Place objects in the bowls for added pressure while they set. Keep in mind that if you love to turn teacups into home treasures, you could use them as seed containers instead! Give the chandelier at least a day to sit before moving on to the next step.

Hang your chandelier in a spot where you'll be able to observe it, such as a tree in view from your patio. Use the chain on the fixture to secure it in place. Next, add birdseed to the bowls, officially inviting your feathered friends to come feast. Consider using different types in the dishes to help lure in a variety of birds. And to make your yard even more welcoming, give them a water source by constructing a budget-friendly DIY birdbath.

Want to make your bird feeder extra special? It might not be a good idea to cover the chandelier with crystal chains, since reflective materials can sometimes scare birds. However, you could hang a strand of regular beads from its center for a gorgeous touch. If you want to enjoy the feeder at night while the birds are away, mix in a few solar lights along with the bowls. A battery-operated strand that comes with a remote, like these KAQ's Fairy Lights, can be wrapped around the arms to give the fixture a whimsical touch. Just make sure to move the chandelier if heavy rain is in the forecast to help preserve the seed.