How To Make a Mason Jar Bird Feeder Using a Chick Feeder Base

If you love watching the birds from your backyard then this budget-friendly DIY Mason jar bird feeder is just for you! This project uses a simple and inexpensive chick feeder base, making it an easy and stylish way to reuse Mason jars and attract more birds to the area.

Glass mason jar attached to a chick feeder to create a bird feeder.

Why You’ll Love This DIY Bird Feeder

Easy to make- Requires just a few materials and is done in minutes!
Budget-friendly- Repurpose a Mason jar you already have on hand.
Stylish and customizable- Paint the jar with flowers or another decorative designs.
Great for any outdoor space- Backyards, porches, gardens. Simply hang from a tree or hook.

Materials List

Mason jar
Metal or plastic chick feeder base
Twine
Birdseed
Super glue and pot lid (optional)

You can find a chick feeder base at your local Tractor Supply, farm store, pet store, or online. Make sure to buy one that screws onto a standard Mason jar lid. Tip: Our local farm store sold the chick feeder bases for a lot less than online, so be sure to look around.

Supplies for DIY bird feeder to include a metal chick feeder.

Step By Step Directions

Clean your materials- Before you assemble your feeder, wash the Mason jar and feeder base thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Rinse well and let dry completely.

Fill Mason jar with birdseed- Choose a high-quality birdseed mix based on the birds you want to attract.

Attach the chick feeder base- Screw the chick feeder base onto the Mason jar, making sure it fastens securely. Turn the feeder over so that the seed flows into the openings.

Twine with diamond pattern knots on mason jar filled with birdseed.

Attach twine- Wrap twine, rope, or garden wire around the jar so it can easily be hung from a tree branch or hook. For ours, I tied the twine at both ends to make a circle and placed the jar in the center. I then made a knot on each side that fit over the mouth of the jar, and then crossed over the rope and tied another knot on each side.

Placement for your feeder- Hang feeder from a sturdy branch, hook, or fence post.

Pot lid on top of DIY Mason jar bird feeder.

Styles and Customization Ideas

Paint the Mason jar- Paint the Mason jar using non-toxic, outdoor safe paint to add color and personality!
Add a roof- Protect the feeder from the weather by adding a large pot lid as a roof. Attach using super glue.
Use decorative twine- Use decorative twine or ribbon for a farmhouse, rustic look.
Hanging variations- Use a decorative chain or macrame hanger.
Drainage hole- Drill a small hole at the base of the chick feeder to allow water to drain and the seed to remain dry.

Where To Hang Your Bird Feeder

When thinking of a location for your DIY bird feeder, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, birds naturally feel safer near cover such as trees or shrubs. Finding a location that is a bit more protected allows birds to feel safe and keeps the feeder from direct wind or rain.

Another thing to keep in mind is how far off the ground you should place it. To keep squirrels from eating your seed, or cats from becoming too interest in the birds, a good rule is to hang it at least 5 feet off the ground.

Glass mason jar filled halfway with birdseed hanging from twine.

Helpful Tips

If squirrels become a nuisance, try adding a squirrel baffle to deter them from getting to the bird feeder. You can also try using spicy birdseed as it discourages squirrels and raccoons from getting into the seed, but doesn’t bother the birds.
Drilling a small hole at the bottom of the chick feeder will allow water to pass through and keep the birdseed dry.
Location, location, location. If birds aren’t coming to the feeder, try a quieter location near trees and shrubs. Just remember to be patient as it can take birds a few weeks to find a few feeder. If that fails, try a different seed to see if the the birds in your area like it any better.
Be sure to clean your DIY Mason jar bird feeder, regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of birdseed should I use?

The best birdseed depends on the birds in your area. Black oil sunflower seeds, nyjer seed, and mixed birdseed blends attract a variety of different birds.

How do I prevent squirrels from taking over the feeder?

Place a squirrel baffle above the feeder or use a location that is difficult for squirrels to access.

Can I use a different type of chick feeder?

Yes! Metal ones last longer outdoors, but plastic ones are easy to clean, lightweight, and come in different colors and designs.

Where can I buy a chick feeder?

You can buy a chick feeder from Tractor Supply, your local farm store, or even online. Be sure to compare prices for the best deals.

Can I make this bird feeder using a different type of jar such as a spaghetti jar or pickle jar?

No. We did try this project using a recycled spaghetti jar and pickle jar, but neither of them worked. Feel free to give it a try yourself but a standard Mason jar is what fits properly.

Mason jar bird feeder with chick base surrounded by orange flowers.

Making a Mason jar bird feeder is a quick and easy way to recycle old jars and enhance your garden’s charm and appearance. With a few small paint colors you can add a decorative touch and even get the kids involved in this simple DIY project.

So dust off your Mason jars, grab a couple of chick feeders, and create something beautiful. Happy birdwatching!

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