Bird Seed Wreath

Bring more feathered friends to your backyard with this simple homemade bird feeder. This easy craft creates a decorative wreath that wild birds will love. It's a fun nature-inspired activity and makes a lovely gift.

You will need:

• ¾ cup plain flour
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 packet (7 g / ¼ oz) unflavoured gelatin
• ½ cup warm water
• 4 cups bird seed
• A ceramic, glass or silicone ring mould, Bundt pan, or a bowl with a small glass or jar placed in the centre to create the hole
• Cooking spray or a light coating of oil
• Ribbon, twine or natural jute string (for hanging)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk the gelatin into the warm water until it has completely dissolved.
2. Stir in the honey and flour until the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the bird seed and mix until all of the seeds are evenly coated. The mixture will be thick and sticky.
4. Lightly grease your mould with cooking spray or a little oil.
5. Firmly press the bird seed mixture into the mould, making sure there are no air pockets.
6. Leave the wreath to set overnight, or for at least 12 hours, in a cool, dry place.
7. Carefully remove the wreath from the mould.
8. Thread ribbon, twine or jute string through the centre and hang it from a tree branch or bird-feeding station outdoors.

Tips

• This recipe makes one medium wreath (approximately 20–23 cm/8–9 inches across), depending on the size of your mould.
• Silicone moulds are often the easiest to unmould, but ceramic, glass or metal Bundt pans also work well.
• Once fully set, the wreath should hold its shape outdoors. For the longest life, hang it in a sheltered spot out of heavy rain and direct afternoon sun.
• If the wreath crumbles when removed from the mould, allow it to dry for a few more hours before trying again.