Since 2010, the first Wednesday in August is all about making holiday gifts. After this year’s projects, a list of ones from previous years are included.
We’re focusing on creating items that help the birds.
On cold snowy mornings, it’s enjoyable watching the birds at the feeder, while sipping a cup of something warm. In the spring, it’s fun to see what bird will be
building a nest in the bird house my eldest son made in 2nd grade.
So below are a lot of items to start working on now so you'll have them for Holiday giving.
Make a birdhouse: SunCather Studios has more than 25 free plans (from beginner upwards) for bird houses.
Make a bird feeder: Check out 14 Easy DIY Winter Bird Feeders. There is one made out of old Legos.
Cookies for the birds: Start now checking thrift stores for cookie cutters that would work for this project. It’s best to make these several weeks in advance before you send or give as a gift. Let these cure in the cookie cutter or other form for 48 hours before you unmold.
Pine Cone feeders: These are simple to make. Collect pine cones now and let them “season” dry out so they’ll be perfect for smearing with peanut butter and rolling in birdseed. When it’s closer to the time you want to give them, follow these simple steps:
- Cut a piece of twine 12-20 inches. Tie around the top of the pine cone. Do this first before apply peanut butter
- Using a small spatual or butter knife, spread peanut butter over the pine cone. A little goes a long way.
- Pour birdseed into a bowl and roll the pine cone in the seed and make sure it’s well covered.
- Wrap in plastic wrap with the twine sticking out before “gift wrapping.”
Bird-Friendly Coffee: Drinking shade grown coffee helps to conserve habitat that North American song birds occupy in the winter. Learn more at the Smithsonian’s Bird Friendly Coffee website. You’ll want to purchase coffee in ample time for the holidays, so read up on the lag time you need. Since this can be pretty pricey, organize tins, bags, mugs, and other containers where you can sub divide larger bags. Be sure to include a tag that explains about the importance of purchasing shade grown coffee.
Previous Years August Holiday Gifts to Start Now
• 2010: Candles; Eyeglass case and bookmarks; fabric flower brooch
• 2012: Make a variety of items using the sun including sun stencils and art work
• 2013:
From fruitcakes to fabric covered canvas
• 2014 Infinity scarf, knife block or stripe, fire starters, flavored syrups, activity books
• 2015 Presents for the gardener in your life
• 2016 Bowls
• 2017 Jars
• 2018 Puzzle Pieces
• 2019 Candles
• 2020 Activity Kits
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