How to Make Bird Houses Out of Gourds

Gourds make quaint birdhouses and are easy to make.

You can use gourds to make many things such as parts of fall decorations on a table or outside display, bowls or bird houses. The gourd bird houses are simple to make and good craft project for your child or an entire class. The kids will have fun making them and you can turn it into a lesson on the environment, birds and conservation.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Twine or cord
• Spoon
• Soapy water
• Scrub brush
• Gourd

Instructions

1. Wash the gourd in soapy water with a scrub brush and hang it up to dry. This could take two days to a week or more, depending on the type and size of the gourd. You can tell the gourd is dry when it rattles as you shake it.

2. Cut one or two holes in the gourd near the bottom on the fatter part of it. Make it about 1 inch to 1 1/2 inches wide. Cut a small hole in the back of the gourd near the bottom edge for drainage and air circulation.

3. Shake out the dried up insides of the gourd. They should fall out fairly easily. Use a spoon or other device to scrape out the inside walls for anything that is still hanging on.

4. Tie a cord around the stem of the gourd to hang it or make holes in either side of the top and thread the cord through to hang it.

References

• Gardening for Wildlife: Gourd Bird Houses