Rebecca's Bird Gardens Blog: DIY Birdseed Wreaths

Here's an easy project that actually works...
For the market this Christmas, I put together these cute birdseed wreaths (that were a hit). You never know what will sell, but next year I'll definitely come prepared with more of these Christmas wreaths!

There are a lot of these DIY wreath recipes out there, but I tweaked a few and came up with one that holds together well and looks nice too.

Here are the steps to my popular birdseed wreath...

(makes 2 wreaths)

3/4 cup flour
1 cup warm water
6 tablespoons light corn syrup
2 package unflavored gelatin
8 cups bird food (such as seeds, peanuts, berries, dried fruits)
2 bundt pans or other molds
Nonstick cooking spray

Stir the gelatin into the water and heat over medium heat until dissolved. Whisk in the corn syrup and flour. Stir well until there are no more lumps. It will make a thick gooey paste. Add the birdseed and stir until all the seeds are coated. Place the mixture equally divided into two greased Bundt pans. Using a greased metal spoon, press the seed mixture into the Bundt pans (be sure to press the mixture down firmly until it’s well packed and even). Place the pans in the refrigerator until set then carefully remove them from the molds by turning them upside down onto a cookie sheet. Let the wreaths dry for about 5 days (turning them occasionally so that they dry throughout).

Update! I've started adding a wire ring insert to the wreaths. It holds the wreaths together and keeps them from falling apart when the birds eat through one side. Add half the birdseed mixture to the pan - add the wire ring - then the remaining mixture. Continue as above...

Tip: Use the wreaths within a week or refrigerate them until ready to use. I've had them get moldy at times when I haven't done this.. This wreath also works well during the hottest of the summer months (unlike suet). This recipe can also be used to make birdseed ornaments (use plastic molds).

Add a string or ribbon - Hang the wreath outside - Watch the action!