Weaving a Willow Bird Feeder

Each bird feeder begins with a small bundle of willow rods that are first sorted, soaked, and prepared for weaving.

The finished feeder is both functional and decorative, designed to hang outdoors and provide food for birds throughout the seasons.

Below is a look at the stages involved in building one of these woven feeders.

Getting Started

Start with 6 sticks about as thick as a pencil, thin weavers and a bodkin, sometimes called an awl.

Step 1

Thread 3 sticks inside 3 sticks, using the bodkin to open 3 of the sticks in the middle.

Step 2

Weave, in this case twine with 2 weavers, twice around the 4 groups of sticks.

Step 3

Pull sides sticks out and twine around them.

Step 4

Gradually form a cup with your hands.

Step 5

With 12 added sticks and a 3 rod wale, you will have your bird feeder.