BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Make a Garden Scarecrow

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

Rate: (2 Ratings)

Farmers began building scarecrows to scare hungry birds from their fields. Today, you can make a scarecrow to keep those hungry pests out of the garden.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Wooden stake
Nails, hooks or screws
Old clothes
Burlap sack
Milk jug
Scarecrow stuffing material (straw, hay, grocery bags or newspapers)
Heavy twine
Nylon string

Step1

Pick a spot in the garden for the scarecrow. Think of the places in the garden where pests have eaten your crops. Choose the most central spot of the garden if you are unsure of where to place the scarecrow.

Step2

Select the base or pole for the scarecrow. Purchase a wooden stake or an iron shepherd's hook. If you don't want to buy a wooden stake, use an old tree stump or a small sapling for the garden scarecrow.

Step3

Gather old clothes and scarecrow material. Find a shirt and pants. Boots, scarf and a hat are optional but they make a great addition to the scarecrow.

Step4

Use an old torn blanket or a burlap sack for the scarecrow's head. You could also use a milk jug and cover it with material to make the scarecrow head too.

Step5

Stuff the scarecrow's body and head with straw, hay, newspapers or plastic grocery bags. Tie the ends with heavy weather proof twine. If you use hay, leave some hay sticking out of the sleeves and pant legs to get that typical scarecrow look.

Step6

Attach the scarecrow to the base and pole using nails, screws or hooks. You can also tie the garden scarecrow to the post using twine or nylon string.

Tips & Warnings

Give your scarecrow a face for better results. Sew on buttons or use a waterproof paint to add eyes, a mouth and a nose. The more lifelike the scarecrow is, the more likely it will keep away pests.