| Gourd Birdhouse |
From "DIY Kids"
episode DIK-301 |
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Materials: Martin gourds
Water
Soap
Scouring pad
A pencil
Drill and bits
Hand saw -- like a keyhole saw
Primer
Acrylic paint
Brushes
All-weather varnish
Leather string
Paper clips
Sandpaper
Goggles
One adult Instructions: - Place the gourd in a pan with water and a little liquid soap. Scrub the outside of the gourd (figure A) and let it dry.
- Draw a circle on the gourd about two inches in diameter. While someone is holding the gourd tight, drill about eight holes around the circle (figure B). Next, use a small saw to finish cutting out the opening (figure C). Remove the circle you have cut out.
- Drill holes in the following places: two in the top for the hanger, two small ones in the top for ventilation, and four small holes in the bottom for drainage.
- Turn the gourd over and shake the seeds out of the interior of the gourd (figure D).
- Sand the rough edges of the opening.
- Prime and paint the gourd and let it dry.
- Paint on several coats of outdoor varnish (figure E) and let it dry.
- Thread leather string through the holes in the top and hang. If you have trouble threading the string through the holes, try using a paper clip as a needle to pull it through (figure F). Find a tree and hang it -- you have a home-sweet-home for a purple martin.
Tips: - Always have an adult supervise when you are using tools, like a drill, saw, etc.
- Ask an adult where a good place to work might be, and make sure your work area is protected so you don't make a mess.
Products: All products are available at craft and hardware stores nationwide. Gourds are available through local farmer's markets. Also try searching the Web for local growers in your area. The cost is approximately $3 to $6 each.
RESOURCES :
Complete Birdhouse Book
Model: 0316188867
Author: Donald Stokes and Williams Stokes
(1998)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here
Time Warner, Inc
New York , NY 10020
Phone: 212-522-8700
Website: www.twbookmark.com
Ultimate Birdhouses: 40 Functional, Fantastic and Fanciful Houses
Model: 0806999357
Author: Deborah Morgenthal
(1998)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here
Sterling Publishing Co. Inc.
Website: www.sterlingpub.com
GUESTS :
Thomas Rouse
6000 Sample Rd.
Huntersville, NC 28078
Phone: 704-875-6521
Website: www.birdsofprey.org
Wild Wings Educator
Carolina Raptor Center
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