Birdseed Wreath
Our adventures in feeding birds started with a gift from my husband’s brother and his wife. A star made out of birdseed. We hung it outside our picture window and it didn’t take us long to get hooked. After the star was consumed, I spent time on Pinterest to learn how to make my own seed creation. From there I have worked to make just the right combination of ingredients to attract our feathered friends.
I found the perfect mold for a wreath is the Tupperware Jel-Ring mold. The two piece mold lets you dry the wreath completely without worrying about the wreath developing mildew before it is completely dry.
I formed a wire structure (14 gauge) to fit inside the mold before filling it with the birdseed mixture. The seed clings to it and the birds are able to hold on to the wire as they nip away at the remaining seeds. I attached an additional length of wire to make a hook to hang the wreath from. Once you make your wire structure you can use it over and over again.
Directions for Birdseed Wreath:
Add to a large bowl:
- 4 cups Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
- 2 cups Fruit and Nut Seed Mix
- 1 cup all purpose flour
Toss together until evenly coated.
Heat 3/4 cup of water until boiling in a glass measuring cup.
Slowly add while stirring:
- 1 package Plain Knox Gelatin
Continue to stir until completely dissolved.
Then mix in:
- 1/4 corn syrup
Pour into birdseed/flour mixture and stir until coated. Press mixture into mold.
Allow to dry for 24 hours. Carefully un-mold wreath, (it will still be damp). Set the wreath back on the inner part of the mold.
Allow to dry another 24 hours. Completely un-mold and allow to dry an additional 24 hours before hanging outdoors. Happy Birdwatching!
Sunny Diversions 