How to Make a Teacup Bird Feeder
If you’ve ever found a pretty teacup at the thrift store and thought, “This is too cute not to use,” here’s the perfect project for you. Making your own teacup bird feeder is a fun and functional way to repurpose vintage or mismatched cups and saucers while giving your backyard birds a stylish spot to snack.
This idea actually came from my daughter, Taylor, who shares my love of thrifting. While her dad and I were at Mayo Clinic with her brother, she put this project together, took her own photos, and sent me a text that said, “Mom, I made this for your blog!” I was so proud of her. Not only was it incredibly thoughtful, but it turned out absolutely beautiful!
This easy DIY fits perfectly into a homesteader’s mindset—reduce waste, reuse what you can, and make your outdoor space more inviting to pollinators and wildlife.
What You’ll Need
- A teacup and saucer or small plate (ceramic or porcelain work best)
- Gorilla Glue or another strong outdoor adhesive
- String, twine, or ribbon for hanging
- Scissors
- Optional: Drill if you’d rather create a hole for hanging, but not necessary
- Free PDF printable Instruction card
Instructions for Teacup Bird Feeders
Step 1: Prep Your Pieces
Remove any price tags or stickers from your plate and teacup. Wash them thoroughly and dry completely. Clean surfaces help the glue bond better.
Step 2: Apply the Glue
Add a small amount of Gorilla Glue to the side of the teacup (opposite the handle) and a bit of glue to the center of the plate or saucer.
Step 3: Position the Teacup
Press the teacup onto the plate, tilted slightly so the handle is sticking up. This makes it easier to tie your hanging string later. Hold for a few seconds until the glue grips.
Step 4: Let It Dry
Leave the glued pieces to dry for several hours or overnight to ensure a strong bond. Make sure it’s somewhere safe and undisturbed.
Step 5: Attach the String
Tie your string, twine, or ribbon around the teacup handle. Create a loop so you can hang it easily from a tree branch or garden hook.
Step 6: Hang and Fill
Hang your feeder outdoors and fill the cup with birdseed. That’s it—you’ve just created a charming, upcycled bird feeder!
👉 Want to make your own eco-friendly birdseed?
Click here to see how to make your own zero-waste birdseed
Teacup Bird Feeder Gift Idea:
These also make adorable handmade gifts. Pair one with a small bag of homemade birdseed and a handwritten tag. Great for Mother’s Day, birthdays, teacher gifts, or holiday baskets!
Final Thoughts
This is one of those simple projects that brings a lot of joy—to you and your feathered friends. Whether you’re a homesteader or just enjoy a little DIY, this teacup bird feeder is an easy way to add charm to your yard. It also gives local birds a welcoming spot to stop for a snack.
Teacup Bird Feeder
This cute Teacup Bird Feeder is made from thrifted items.
Materials
- teacup
- saucer
Tools
- string
- gorilla glue
Instructions
- Remove any price tags or stickers from your plate and teacup. Wash them thoroughly and dry completely. Clean surfaces help the glue bond better.
- Add a small amount of Gorilla Glue to the side of the teacup (opposite the handle) and a bit of glue to the center of the plate or saucer.
- Press the teacup onto the plate, tilted slightly so the handle is sticking up. This makes it easier to tie your hanging string later. Hold for a few seconds until the glue grips.
- Leave the glued pieces to dry for several hours or overnight to ensure a strong bond. Make sure it’s somewhere safe and undisturbed.
- Tie your string, twine, or ribbon around the teacup handle. Create a loop so you can hang it easily from a tree branch or garden hook.
- Hang your feeder outdoors and fill the cup with birdseed. That’s it—you’ve just created a charming, upcycled bird feeder!
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