Sometimes the cutest outdoor decorations start with the simplest materials. A glass jar, two red clay saucers, and a little creativity can become a charming bird feeder that adds farmhouse character to your porch.
This DIY clay saucer bird feeder is inexpensive, easy to customize, and functional. Instead of buying another decorative piece for your outdoor space, you can turn ordinary household and craft supplies into something that attracts birds and adds personality to your porch.
Why This DIY Bird Feeder Is So Charming
The appeal of this project comes from its simplicity. The terracotta saucers create a warm, rustic appearance, while the glass jar gives the feeder a clean and slightly vintage look.
It also serves a practical purpose. Once filled with appropriate birdseed, the saucer provides a convenient feeding area for visiting birds.
You can hang the finished feeder from a sturdy location or place it on a stable surface where birds can safely reach it.
What You’ll Need
You only need a handful of materials for this project:
- 1 sturdy glass jar: Choose a clean jar approximately 6–8 inches tall.
- 2 red clay or terracotta saucers: Around 8 inches in diameter works well.
- Outdoor-rated waterproof adhesive: Choose an adhesive specifically designed for the materials and outdoor conditions.
- Twine or sturdy outdoor cord: For hanging the feeder.
- Birdseed: Use a birdseed blend suitable for the birds common in your area.
- Optional outdoor-safe paint: Use this only if you want to customize the saucers.
How to Make the Clay Saucer Bird Feeder
1. Clean Everything Thoroughly
Start by washing the glass jar and both clay saucers. Remove dust, dirt, grease, and residue.
Allow every piece to dry completely. Adhesive bonds much better to clean, dry surfaces.
2. Prepare the First Saucer
Place one clay saucer upside down on your work surface. This saucer will eventually form the base of the feeder.
Before applying adhesive, position the jar in the center to make sure everything lines up correctly.
3. Attach the Jar to the Saucer
Apply a suitable outdoor waterproof adhesive to the contact area between the jar and saucer.
Carefully position the jar in the center of the saucer. Press gently so the surfaces make good contact.
Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions for curing time. Do not move the project until the bond has fully cured.
4. Attach the Second Saucer
Once the first connection is completely secure, turn your attention to the second saucer.
Apply adhesive to the appropriate contact area and position the second saucer on the opposite end of the jar.
The saucer should create a small overhang around the jar, giving birds a convenient place to perch while also helping protect the seed from some weather.
5. Let Everything Cure
This is the step you don’t want to rush.
Even if the adhesive feels dry on the surface, it may need additional time to reach full strength. Keep the feeder stationary for the entire curing period recommended by the adhesive manufacturer.
6. Add the Hanging Cord
If you plan to hang the feeder, attach a sturdy loop of outdoor-rated cord around a secure part of the feeder.
Make sure the hanging method can support the weight of the feeder, seed, and any additional moisture from rain.
For extra safety, test the finished feeder close to the ground before hanging it higher.
7. Add the Birdseed
Once the construction is completely secure, add a modest amount of birdseed to the feeding area.
Avoid filling it so high that the seed can easily spill over the edges.
Choose seed based on the birds you want to attract. A general wild-bird blend is a convenient starting point.
8. Choose the Right Spot
Place or hang the feeder somewhere birds can reach it easily while still giving them enough space to observe their surroundings.
A partially sheltered location can help protect the feeder from heavy rain and strong winds.
Avoid positioning it where falling branches, pets, or other hazards could cause the feeder to fall.
Easy Ways to Customize Your Bird Feeder
The basic design is charming on its own, but there are plenty of ways to make it your own.
Try Different Colors
The red terracotta look works beautifully with farmhouse and rustic decor. For something more colorful, paint the saucers with outdoor-rated paint before assembling the feeder.
Soft blue, sage green, cream, and yellow can all create a different appearance.
Add Decorative Twine
Wrap natural-colored twine around the jar for a farmhouse-inspired look.
You could also use weather-resistant cord in a color that coordinates with your porch furniture.
Use Different Jar Shapes
A straight-sided glass jar gives the feeder a simple silhouette, while a wider or more decorative jar can create a completely different look.
Make sure whichever jar you choose is sturdy enough for outdoor use.
Create a Matching Porch Display
Place the feeder near potted plants, wooden furniture, terracotta pots, or a small watering can.
The earthy colors of the clay saucers pair especially well with natural materials.
Tips for a Better DIY Bird Feeder
Choose sturdy materials. Thin or fragile glass can be more likely to crack outdoors.
Use outdoor-rated adhesive. Regular craft glue may not withstand rain, temperature changes, and humidity.
Allow plenty of curing time. Don’t hang or fill the feeder until the adhesive has completely cured.
Keep it clean. Regularly remove old or wet seed and clean the feeding area.
Don’t overfill it. Smaller amounts of fresh seed can help reduce waste and mess.
Check it regularly. Inspect the adhesive joints, hanging cord, and saucers for cracks or signs of weakening.
Keep pets in mind. If cats or other pets have access to the porch, place the feeder where birds have a safer escape route.
Where Should You Hang a Bird Feeder?
Location can make a big difference.
A feeder should be easy for birds to find but positioned away from obvious hazards. A spot with some nearby cover can give birds a place to retreat when they feel threatened.
At the same time, avoid placing it so close to dense vegetation that predators can easily hide nearby.
A covered porch can be a particularly attractive location because it provides some protection from the weather while allowing you to enjoy watching visiting birds.
Is This Bird Feeder Weatherproof?
The individual materials may handle outdoor conditions differently.
Terracotta can withstand ordinary outdoor use, but repeated exposure to freezing temperatures and moisture can cause some clay products to crack. Glass can also become damaged if it falls or experiences extreme temperature changes.
The adhesive is especially important because it needs to withstand outdoor moisture and temperature fluctuations.
For these reasons, inspect the feeder regularly and bring it indoors during severe weather if necessary.
How to Keep the Bird Feeder Clean
Bird feeders should be cleaned regularly because leftover seed, moisture, and bird droppings can create an unhygienic environment.
Empty old seed before adding fresh seed. Wash the feeding surface with warm water and a suitable cleaning solution, then rinse thoroughly and allow everything to dry completely before refilling.
If any component becomes cracked or difficult to clean, replace it rather than continuing to use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any glass jar?
It’s best to use a sturdy glass jar without cracks or chips. Avoid very thin decorative glass that may not hold up well outdoors.
What adhesive should I use?
Choose an adhesive specifically labeled for outdoor use and compatible with both glass and terracotta. Follow its curing and handling instructions carefully.
Can I paint the clay saucers?
Yes. Use paint designed for outdoor applications and allow it to dry and cure completely before assembling the feeder.
Can I place the feeder on a table instead of hanging it?
Yes. If the feeder is stable and positioned safely, it can be placed on a sturdy table, shelf, or porch ledge.
How often should I clean the feeder?
Clean it regularly and whenever the seed becomes wet, moldy, or heavily soiled. More frequent cleaning may be necessary during warm or rainy weather.
What birdseed should I use?
A general wild-bird seed blend is an easy starting point. You can also choose seed based on the species commonly found in your area.
A Simple Project With a Big Porch-Pleasing Result
This clay saucer bird feeder proves that you don’t need complicated supplies to create something special for your outdoor space.
With two terracotta saucers, a sturdy glass jar, and the right outdoor adhesive, you can create a rustic feeder that doubles as charming porch decor.
The best part is that you can customize the colors, hanging style, and surrounding decorations to match your own space. Once it’s finished, add fresh birdseed, find a safe location, and enjoy watching your new feathered visitors stop by.