Try This Easy DIY To Transform An Empty Coffee Container Into A Birdhouse

If native birds flock to your yard on the daily, then you know a thing or two about how to attract birds to your garden. But what about adding some birdhouses so your feathered friends have a place to nest in the spring? If you're a fan of upcycling materials — something the environment and your wallet will thank you for — then this hack is for you. You just need an old plastic coffee container and with a few easy modifications, you'll have a brand-new birdhouse in no time, thanks to a simple TikTok video shared by @porchsiderustic. 

To carry out this hack, you need to grab an old plastic coffee canister and drill a hole in it for local birds to nest. The type of birds you're looking to attract will dictate the size opening you create, so take this into consideration before getting to work. For example, bluebirds and tree swallows need openings 1½ inches in diameter. The house finch needs a 2-inch opening. Bigger birds require a larger entrance height that a coffee canister can't accommodate, so don't drill holes larger than 2 inches. 

Cutting holes in plastic can be tricky, and some online message boards suggest using hot soldering irons to efficiently tackle projects like these. Amazon sells one for $10. Just be careful when using the tool as it can reach 896 degrees Fahrenheit. Always unplug when not in use and keep out of reach of children and pets. Alternatively, use a utility knife to carefully cut the hole, and sand any rough edges. 

Once you create the entrance, add circulation holes. They're best when drilled under a birdhouse's roof, but since this hack uses an old coffee canister, you can just drill them closer to the top of your bird dwelling. Your birdhouse also needs proper drainage in case water enters inside. You'll want a total of four holes drilled into the base of your coffee container.

You may want to consider securing the coffee container's lid in place, bear-proofing your DIY birdhouse. Bears love strong, fragrant smells, coffee included. Conversely, raccoons purportedly dislike the scent. Regardless, you don't want to risk one of these critters accidentally popping the lid off your coffee can, getting their heads stuck — especially curious bear cubs who are still growing. To be on the safe side, use a non-toxic glue to secure the lid in place. Weldbond is an excellent option, and Amazon sells a 2-pack of it for under $14. Just be sure to keep it out of reach from children and pets.

If you don't like the look of a plastic birdhouse, consider painting it. Chalk paint adheres to virtually any surface. You can scuff your plastic container up a bit to help the paint adhere, adding a coat of your favorite color. You can even have fun with the kiddos and turn this into an arts and crafts project, decorating this DIY birdhouse with liquid chalk markers. Amazon sells an 8-pack for $9.

TikToker @porchsiderustic also attached a perch to the outside of the coffee canister birdhouse using a metal rod, but you can skip this step, as it attracts predatory birds to eggs in the nest. Next, attach your birdhouse to a tree; be sure to suspend it a minimum of 5 feet from the ground. Using a nail, secure it in place. If this is too difficult due to the small size of its opening, you can also attach your makeshift birdhouse using twine. Simply drill four holes — two on either side of your coffee can, near the back. Thread the twine through and secure it to your tree. If you're worried it might slip, you can secure the twine in place with a nail outside your bird dwelling. Additionally, where you place your birdhouse is also important. Avoid high-traffic areas or else you may frighten away nesting pairs. Since birds like to have plenty of open space, keep these dwellings away from bird baths and bird feeders.

Once you have your birdhouse installed, you can attract more birds to your yard with DIY nesting bundles. You'll have a beautiful backyard oasis with tons of gorgeous songbirds and more. You can even up the ante and try to attract hummingbirds to your garden. No, these beautiful winged creatures don't use birdhouses, but this doesn't mean you can't have an assortment of colorful avian visitors flying around your yard.