Easy to Make Squirrel Feeder – Kid Friendly Project

This easy to make squirrel feeder is a kid friendly project you can knock out really fast and for only a few bucks. The project takes advantage of common 6’ fence boards and you can even use salvaged lumber. Your kids will love watching squirrels tear into the corn and it will keep them entertained for hours. It’s a good moment to teach them a bit about nature and wildlife too!

Tools and Materials

No special tools needed. A circle saw, jigsaw (optional), an air nailer are the big ones. Check the links below for my recommendations.

Materials for the squirrel feeder are cheap and easy to find. You need a single 6’ fence board and some waterproof glue. I use Titebond III.

Layout

Layout a back piece at 12” long, a platform at 8” long and two 45-degree brackets at 5-3/8” x 5-3/8”. You should be able to make 3 out of a single fence board.

Cutting

Cross cut the parts to length. For may project I used my table saw. You can use a circle saw or handsaw.

You can curve the ends of the back and one end of the platform if you want to dress it up a bit. I used a paint can to create my radii. You can use a trammel compass if you want. I have a link in the bottom for the one that I use.

On completion you should have the following parts:

Back 12” x 5-3/8” x 5/8”

1 Platform 8” x 5-3/8” x 5/8”

2 Braces 5-3/8” x 5-3/8” x 5/8”

Assembly

This project has no sanding involved (WAHOO!!!) or finish. All we need to do is to glue and nail. Apply glue to the brackets first and nail in place with 18ga 1-1/4” or 1-1/2” nails. If you are making this with kids I would abandon the air nailer and pre-drill holes for 1-1/4″ Deck Screws. Easier and safer.

Apply glue to the end of the platform and the tops of the brackets and nail the platform in place.

BE CAREFUL that the nails don’t come out the side and strike your hand.

Mark a spot along the center line of the platform about ¾” in from the edge. Drive a 3” Deck Screw on the mark from the bottom of the platform upwards so it sticks out – this is where you will place the corn cob.

Wahoo – you are done!! Links below to several tools I use and if you do build this project , I would love to see it posted on my FB page (link below).