Pine Cone Bird Feeders

This was Elliott's and my first trip down the project lane. We had a surprisingly warm day in January and to take advantage we ventured outside for these easy-to-make feeders.

You will need:

• Pine cones
• Yarn
• Shortening or peanut butter
• Bird seed
• Pan to hold bird seed

How to:

1. Tie a bit of yarn around the top of a pine cone.
2. Smear the shortening (or peanut butter) over the pine cone with a plastic knife.
3. Roll pine cone in bird seed.
4. Hang on a tree branch

Thoughts: This was a super easy project. Elliott was one and a half when we made it the first time, so this is a good one for young kids. We have reseeded our feeders several times and the smearing and rolling always goes over well.

Note: If pine cones contain any sap, try this helpful hint before beginning. Soak them in a sink full of warm water and one cup vinegar for 30 minutes, rinse and dry on newspapers.