How to Make a Birdhouse From a Dried Gourd

Finished gourd birdhouse

Birds need shelter too. Learn how to turn an ordinary dried gourd into a whimsical birdhouse for your feathered friends.

Things You'll Need

• Dried gourd
• Damp steel wool pad
• Paper towels
• Drill
• 1/8 and 1/4 drill bit
• Carving knife
• Can of clear coat (spray or brush on)
• Wire or rope

Instructions

1. Take the dried gourd and gently rub the shell with a damp steel wool pad. When you have cleaned the surface of the gourd to your satisfaction, take a lightly damp paper towel and clean off any soapy residue. Dry the gourd with a towel.

2. 

   When the gourd is completely dry, now is the time to seal it. If you want your gourd to remain natural looking, simply put a coat or two of clear coat or shellac on it. This will help protect it from the elements. If you wish to get creative you need to prime the gourd with a simple craft paint primer, and then cover it with the design you have in mind. Remember to mark out where you will be making the opening for the birdhouse so you can include it as part of your design. Once you have painted the gourd in the desired style, seal it with the clear coat or shellac.

3. 

   With your gourd painted and coated, take your drill with 1/4 inch drill and drill a hole in the center of where you have your birdhouse opening marked out. With the carving knife, carve the hole wider until it is 1 1/2 inches in diameter. This size is big enough for most birds that will be nesting in the gourd, and also big enough for you to get out all of the seeds and dried pulp from inside the gourd.

4. 

   With the 1/8 inch drill bit, drill a hole in the top of the gourd approximately 1 inch from the stem. This is where you will insert your wire or string for hanging the gourd. Hang it in your garden or outside a favorite window so you can watch your feathered friends enjoy their new home.

Tips & Warnings

• If you plan to grow your own birdhouse gourds, the best variety is called the "Mexican Gourd." Start your seeds indoors well in advance, as gourds require long growing seasons.

• Dry your gourds in a warm, dry place with good air circulation. Gourds have a long drying time so be sure to hear some seeds roll around when you shake it before cutting.

Resources

• More tips and ideas on making birdhouse gourds