Ashleigh Smith + photo

Ashleigh Smith

Dec 31
2 min read
bubble 2
Bird sitting on a plastic bottle bird feeder perch

There are many ways to make a bird feeder from a plastic bottle. You have probably done this activity many times as a kid either for a school project or at a summer camp. The basic concept is that you can cut holes in a bottle full of bird seed providing a cheap and entertaining way to feed your local wildlife.

It is also customary to add a perch for the birds to rest on. This can be done by putting either a dowel, pencil, or other stick-like object through the plastic container. My favorite way of adding a perch is by inserting a cooking spoon with the spoon end dispensing some seed. I have found that this method can increase the bird traffic that visits my feeder during the summers.

Steps To Make Your Own Bird Feeder:

  1. Pick out a plastic bottle. You can use anything from the common water bottle to a 2 liter or milk gallon.
  2. If you are going to use a spoon as a dispenser and perch, cut a small hole for the spoon end and a slot for the handle to fit through directly across from the first hole. The advantage to using a spoon as a dispenser is that you can fill the entire bottle with seed.
  3. If you aren’t using a spoon, cut out a hole big enough that birds can retrieve the seed. Keep in mind you will only be able to fill the feeder up as high as the lowest hole you make. Add a perch by cutting a hole just big enough for a pencil or dowel, then insert your chosen perch.
  4. Fill the bottle with your favorite bird seed. We recommend our Organic Bird Seed Sprouting Mix. This mix is perfect to add to your bird feeder, or sprout as a healthy addition to any meal for yourself.
  5. Make two holes directly across from each other just below the bottle cap. Feed some twine through the holes. Use this to tie your feeder to a tree or other support. You may make two additional holes in the opposite direction from your initial set for more stability.
  6. Hang your new bird feeder in a tree or on your porch.

Become a True Leaf Market Brand Ambassador! You’ll enjoy awesome perks, free products and exclusive swag & offers! Help us create a gardening revolution and help others experience the joy of growing!

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

2 comments

Paula Helene Marlatt

I love your emails! I send them to our kids and grandkids. Everyone in this family gardens. Thank you for the inspirations.


Bronwyn Castillo

I wish you had a picture to see how the bird feeder is set up!


  1. Lara's 2024 Garden in Reviewgardener holding a carrot in a glove and a tomato plant with green fruits

    Lara's 2024 Garden in Review

    Written By Lara Wadsworth This year was only my third year having a garden to myself. Growing up, I gardened alongside my mother and grandmother, but after leaving home, I lived in apartments for many years without much space for a garden. I finally go...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-12-03
    13 min read
    bubble 0
  2. Cultivating Christmas TraditionsChristmas gifts, pine sprigs, and ornaments on dark background

    Cultivating Christmas Traditions

    Written By Lara Wadsworth The phrase “Christmas time is here!” will soon echo through your speakers and messaging all around. Most American families, regardless of religion, seem to be celebrating this massive holiday in one way or another. Some may fo...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-11-26
    8 min read
    bubble 0
  3. Giving Tuesday: Turning Gratitude Into Actiongiving tuesday header and person handing off a box of greens

    Giving Tuesday: Turning Gratitude Into Action

    There are a million ways to make the world better. But nothing can happen without action. The best way to make a difference is to start serving, donating, and seeing the people who are within your reach. Big, honorable stories often begin with someone ...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-11-19
    3 min read
    bubble 1
  4. Giving Thanks: The Origins and Traditions of ThanksgivingThanksgiving Day Spread

    Giving Thanks: The Origins and Traditions of Thanksgiving

    Written By Lara Wadsworth One of the most quintessential American holidays is Thanksgiving. With families gathered together, sharing copious amounts of food, and many groups watching either football or televised parades, it is hard to see the true orig...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-11-15
    8 min read
    bubble 1