![A bird sits on a bird feeder carved from a pumpkin. A bird sits on a bird feeder carved from a pumpkin.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/pumpkin-bird-feeder-2022-hero.jpg)
Difficulty
Beginner
Duration
Under 2 hours
Bird feeders make an attractive addition to your garden. Create a simple bird feeder that attracts small bird species like chickadees, house finches and titmice. A fall pumpkin or gourd and macrame braids for hanging are all you’ll need to observe the wonders of nature from the comfort of your yard. Read this guide for step-by-step instructions on how to make a pumpkin bird feeder.
Get a Good-Sized Pumpkin
![Four pumpkins of different sizes on a table. Four pumpkins of different sizes on a table.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/pumpkin-bird-feeder-2022-step-1.jpg)
A ripe pumpkin is what you’ll need to begin your bird feeder project. A good-sized pumpkin or gourd will last about two to three weeks after carving. Use a pumpkin or gourd at least 6 inches in width so the birds have enough room to perch.
Scoop Out the Pumpkin
![A person uses a scoop to remove seeds from a hollowed-out pumpkin. A person uses a scoop to remove seeds from a hollowed-out pumpkin.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/pumpkin-bird-feeder-2022-step-2.jpg)
Use a carving knife to cut off the top third of the pumpkin. Scoop out the seeds and fibrous membrane from inside the vegetable. Let the pumpkin sit for an hour or two until the exposed inside flesh begins to harden. This will keep the seeds from getting soggy.
Cut the Twine
![Lengths of twine tied together to form a loop. Lengths of twine tied together to form a loop.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/pumpkin-bird-feeder-2022-step-3.jpg)
The pumpkin planter will be outdoors, so choose twine for your basket that is suitable for the elements. Twine made from eco-friendly natural fibers like cotton, jute and hemp are biodegradable and good for macrame. Another option is twine crafted from synthetic fibers like nylon that is relatively soft to the touch and work well for outdoor projects.
- Cut four pieces of 4-foot lengths of twine.
- Line up the strings so they are even, then fold all four pieces in half.
- Tie an overhand knot 2 inches down from the bend (where you folded it in half). This will form a loop.
Separate the Twine for the Macrame Basket
![Lengths of twine are taped to a surface. Lengths of twine are taped to a surface.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/pumpkin-bird-feeder-2022-step-4.jpg)
A macrame basket is an artistic way to display your pumpkin bird feeder. This decorative series of knots can be done with a bit of practice.
- Tape the top of the loop down onto a flat surface.
- Separate the twine into sets of two strings. Tie a knot at each of the sections about 8 inches down from the top knot.
Tie the Macrame Braids
![Lengths of knotted twine are taped to a surface. Lengths of knotted twine are taped to a surface.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/pumpkin-bird-feeder-2022-step-5.jpg)
Next, grab a string from one set of strings and then one of the strings from the neighboring side. Tie a knot in them directly between the two upper knots.
Repeat this with the other sets of strings. Tape down each section, if needed.
Create the Macrame Basket
![Several pieces of twine are tied together. Several pieces of twine are tied together.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/pumpkin-bird-feeder-2022-step-6.jpg)
Tie together the two remaining strings to form a “basket.”
Tie an overhand knot right below the last set of knots. Trim the twine, leaving about a 1-inch tail.
Fill
![A macrame pot holder on a brown surface. A macrame pot holder on a brown surface.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/pumpkin-bird-feeder-2022-step-7.jpg)
Now that your pumpkin bird feeder is finished, fill it to the brim with food. Sunflower seeds attract the most varieties of birds. Safflower seeds are a favorite with cardinals. Add peanuts to the pumpkin bird feeder mix to attract titmice and chickadees, but change the mixture frequently, especially during rainy or humid weather.
Hang the Bird Feeder
![A Titmouse getting seeds out of a pumpkin bird feeder. A Titmouse getting seeds out of a pumpkin bird feeder.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/pumpkin-bird-feeder-2022-step-8.jpg)
Insert the pumpkin into the macrame hanger and hang it on a tree branch or a shepherd's hook in your yard. Once the pumpkin starts to deteriorate, typically after about three weeks, simply throw it in your compost pile.
Create a hanging feeder from a pumpkin or gourd that attracts colorful birds for you to watch in the fall. When you are ready to start your pumpkin bird feeder project, from the macrame twine to the bird seed, download The Home Depot Mobile App to search for and buy the supplies you need. We deliver online orders when and where you need them.