DIY Project: Metal Birdhouse With Built-In Bird Feeder

Looking for a weekend welding project? In this video, Joe builds a custom metal birdhouse with a built-in bird feeder using simple materials and a few basic fabrication techniques.

Just one thing to keep in mind: metal birdhouses can get extremely hot in direct sunlight, so this project is best used as a sturdy bird feeder or a unique piece of yard art rather than a real nesting box. To help protect visiting birds, Joe also 3D-printed a smooth insert for the entrance hole to cover any sharp metal edges.

Want to turn it into a functional bird house instead? You can easily use Joe’s layout and dimensions as inspiration for a wood version.

Grab your tools, follow along, and make sure to watch until the end for the hilarious surprise guest that stops by to check out Joe’s creation. 🐦

1. Material

• 2 × 24” × 30” × 26-gauge Sheet Metal Panels
• 1 × 24” × 36” × 1 1/4” Corrugated Panel
• 1 × 24” × 36” Sheet Metal Panel
• 1 × 1/16” × 12” Rod
• 2 × 3D-Printed Birdhouse Hole Inserts
• String

2. Equipment & Tools

• YesWelder DP200

Firstess DP200 Multi-Process DualPulse™ MIG Welder

• YesWelder CT2050

FIRSTESS CT2050 Powerful 7-in-1 Welder & Cutter

• CNC Table
• YesWelder Welding Helmet
• YesWelder Welding Gloves
• YesWelder Clamps
• YesWelder Welding Pliers
• Clamps
• Grinder
• Die Grinder
• 3D Printer
• Bender
• Vise-Grip Bender
• Straight Edge
• Hammer
• Cut-Off Wheel
• Grinding Discs

3. Building Process

3.2: Use the CT2050 CNC function to cut the pattern from the metal sheet according to the design drawing. (0:44)

• If you prefer, you can also mark the measurements directly on the metal and cut it out manually

3.3: Bend all the tabs using a homemade bending tool. (1:23)

3.4: Use a metal punch to create holes in the metal to prepare for spot welding. (3:08)

3.5: Drill 1/16” holes in front of each opening to create perches for the birds. (3:32)

3.6: Use some clamps to hold the parts in place, then start welding. (3:40)

3.7: Cut out the birdhouse roof panels from 1/4-inch-thick corrugated engineering board. (5:22)

3.8: Welding the roof panels onto the birdhouse using the tabs. (5:44)

3.9: Drill holes in the roof edge, add a string, and hang the birdhouse. (5:50)

3.10: Final product and “deer house” moment. (6:07)

Make the Entrance Bird‑Safe with a 3D‑Printed Insert (Optional)

Joe added a 3D-printed insert around the entrance hole to smooth out the opening and make it safer for birds.

Use this STL file to 3D print the protective birdhouse insert shown in the project.

Download STL File (Birdhouse Insert)

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