Making a bird feeder from recycled toilet rolls

by Andrex

Recycling and upcycling are key components in the ongoing battle to save the planet, and things we can all do more of with a little imagination. Toilet roll tubes play a role in many upcycled garden ideas – the versatile nature of these cardboard tubes makes them ideal for a variety of projects. 

These two projects are simple to accomplish, easy to use and fun craft ideas for the whole family to enjoy.


Create a homemade bird feeder

Making a homemade bird feeder from a used toilet roll tube could not be simpler. Learning how to make a bird feeder with waste material benefits the planet in many ways. Not only does less rubbish go to landfill – we are also helping multiple species of birds survive, particularly throughout the harsh winter months when natural food sources are scarce. 



These homemade bird feeders are simple enough for even very young children to help make.

To make a DIY bird feeder, you will need:

A used toilet roll tube
String or twine
A butter knife or lollipop stick
A bowl or plate
A variety of bird seed
A digestible fat, such as lard, vegetable shortening or peanut butter

Then following these easy steps:

  1. Using the butter knife or lollipop stick, spread a thick layer of lard, vegetable shortening or peanut butter over the outside of the toilet roll tube. Not only does this help the seeds to stick, it also makes the tube waterproof, ideal for putting out homemade bird feeders in UK weather. Fats also help birds survive during the winter.

  2. Once the tube is completely covered, roll it in a bowl of mixed bird seed so the seeds stick to the fat.

  3. Loop some string or twine through the inside of the toilet roll tube and use to hang on the branch of a tree or from a hook in the wall.

  4. Once the birds have finished all the seeds, you may be able to make another DIY bird feeder from the toilet paper roll. If not, don’t forget to recycle it!

Post your toilet roll craft images on Instagram and tag @AndrexUK to be featured