Turned Birdhouses

[Mitchell Cholewinski]

H Everyone
Would like to post a couple pictures of some bird houses I recently turned. Made several more, different style, but, can't post because my camera seems to have passed away. These were fun to make and very easy to do. they are hollowed out to make them light as possible. Mitch

 

[Joe Greiner]

These birdhouses are solid, but still very light. Google ["birdhouse earrings procedure"] should find two threads (at SawMill Creek and woodworkforums), but - same as here - image access is likely unavailable to visitors.

Joe

 

[Mitchell Cholewinski]

Joe Greiner
Those are nice birdhouses Joe. You did well. I made a few like that myself but much smaller. I just turn the whole thing one piece. Mitch

 

[GeorgeH]

Nice looking Mitch. I turn houses for finches, nut hatches, tit mice and blue birds. Each requires, of course, a different size house. Can't tell by the images what birds do you focus on with your turnings?

 

[Mitchell Cholewinski]

George
I don't turn for any specific bird but the size of the opening usually decides the type of bird tht could be using that particular sized houseThe birds you mention would most likely use a house with a 11/2" opening. This of course is for the safety of the bird. You wouldn't expect a small blue bird to use a house with a two inch hole where some big blue jay would come around and raid the nest and the little birds. I try to make six houses of one specific style then change the roof style for another shape and make six more etc. Mitch

 

[John Torchick]

Yesterday, I was at a store that specializes in bird stuff. I have some questions about your turned birdhouses.
What wood did you use?
What finish did you use?
Is the finial on the bottom a separate piece?
Is the top removable to clean the inside?
Thanks.
May try to make a couple and see if the store owner would be interested in buying a couple.

 

[Joe Greiner]

FYI, the hit on woodworkforums now has images available to guests. They've upgraded their server.

For larger ornamental birdhouses, miniature birds are available at Craft Supplies USA and Michael's craft shops. It's probably best to have the birds in hand to establish final dimensions.

For real birdhouses, the opening size corresponds to the bird species it can attract (Tables likely available somewhere). I don't think they need to be opened for cleaning; the birds should do that for themselves. If they don't, turn it sideways and shake out any debris. Stir the debris with a piece of wire if necessary.

 

[Gretch Flo]

forceps

FYI, the hit on woodworkforums now has images available to guests. They've upgraded their server.
I don't think they need to be opened for cleaning; the birds should do that for themselves. If they don't, turn it sideways and shake out any debris. Stir the debris with a piece of wire if necessary.

Joe-you must have neater birds than I have!!! I use curved and straight forceps (you can get some at Harbor Freight I believe) if I am too lazy to take the rusty screw out, Gretch

 

[Steve Worcester]

I get more wasps than birds