How do I Build a Birdhouse Out of Popsicle Sticks?

Popsicle Sticks Only

• 1

  Lay down a vertical row of seven Popsicle sticks. Place another stick across the row, horizontally. Adjust the placement of the vertical sticks so the row is approximately as long as the horizontal stick. Omit or add another craft stick if needed.

• 2

  Remove the horizontal stick and spread glue along its entire length. Place it, glue side down, on top of the vertical sticks, near the top of the row. Apply glue to another stick and place it at the bottom of the row. Build four more identical structures; these are the walls, roof and floor of the birdhouse.

• 3

  Cut a 12-inch length of wire or string. Choose one of the pieces and thread the wire on either side of the middle two sticks. Identify this piece as your roof. Twist the wire closed so it does not fall out. The wire provides a way to hang the birdhouse when you're finished.

• 4

  Glue three of the structures together as though they were three sides of a box. Make this task easier by using a thick, tacky glue or hot/cold glue gun. Apply glue to one edge each of two walls. Hold them together at a right angle until the glue is dry. Add the third wall using the same method.

• 5

  Place the box in front of you with the open "wall" facing out. Glue two sticks across the bottom of the opening and two at the top. The space that remains open allows a bird to enter the house.

• 6

  Glue on the floor piece and when it's dry, glue on the roof.

• 7

  Allow all the glue to dry securely, then paint and decorate the outside of the birdhouse as you desire.

Milk Carton and Popsicle Sticks

• 8

  Wash an empty half-gallon milk carton with soap and hot water. Dry it well.

• 9

  Draw a circle in the center of one side of the carton. Cut out the circle with a serrated steak knife or craft knife.This is the entry hole for your birdhouse.

• 10

  Lay the milk carton on one side and glue Popsicle sticks onto the level surface. Layer the sticks like shingles or apply them randomly. Allow one side to dry thoroughly before moving to the next side. Cover all sides and the top of the carton, but leave the entry hole uncovered. Paint and decorate the birdhouse after the glue is completely dry.