This quirky faux-birdhouse fence is the perfect backdrop to a kids’ garden. Use different hues for each paling for a fun result – the brighter the colours the better. For step-by-step instructions, read on…
Tools
Bench saw (or use a circular saw or handsaw)
Handsaw
Power drill
Hole saw
40mm galvanised nails
Hammer
Pencil and ruler
Sandpaper
Materials
8 x fence palings 1200mm x 150mm x 19mm
Tanalised plywood offcuts for roofing
3 x dowelling pieces 120mm x 12mm
Paint test pots
Step 1
Using a bench saw, cut three of the palings down to 100m wide. Set aside the offcuts to use as rails. (See photo below)
Step 2
With a handsaw, cut the top of each paling (all eight) at a different angle to form the roof shape. (See photo below)
Step 3
Drill bird holes, at different heights, with a power drill and hole saw. Sand any rough edges with sandpaper. Then, using an ordinary drill bit, drill holes for bird perches (big enough to insert the dowelling) below the bird holes in three of the panels. (See photo below)
Step 4
Make a roof for each paling out of plywood offcuts. On two-sided roofs, one roofing ‘tile’ will need to be cut on an angle. Secure with nails. (See photo below)
Step 5
Paint four of the panels in different colours. Allow to dry. (See photo below)
Step 6
Lay out fence palings in desired position, according to colours and shapes. When you’re happy with your positioning, flip the palings over so they’re face down. Use a long piece of wood to line up the bottom edge and a spacer to space palings at an equal distance. Use the paling offcuts you set aside as rails (you need two) and nail one 100mm from the bottom edge and the other just below the lowest bird hole. Use a space as you go, to ensure the palings don’t move. Turn fence over again and nail fence into rails from the other side as well. Touch up the paint if necessary. (See photo below)
Step 7
Insert the dowelling pieces, then erect your fence in the garden.
STEP 1 Click to enlarge
STEP 2 Click to enlarge
STEP 3 Click to enlarge
STEP 4 Click to enlarge
STEP 5 Click to enlarge
STEP 6 Click to enlarge
Enjoyed very much.
This is such a lovely idea! We are going to make this in our back garden this spring! Well done. Becca Sweden
Thanks Becca! Would love to see your finished fence! Jane
file:///Users/beccachaney/Downloads/PicsArt_137286868417.jpg
Hope you get this. I loved to make it and got loads of nice comments from friends. they all want one! Thank you for the inspiration. 🙂
I’m so pleased you made it Becca. I’m not sure if the link to your image is working though. Jane
I love this! Can’t wait to make one.
Good luck!
Love this Idea~ It is adorable and I’m going to start it right away!! Thank You for the inspiration! Brenda Ackley Just love your web site!♥
I was wanting to know about the bowl flower in front on the bird house fence.I would love to make it.
Hi Donna
I have actually done a DIY on the birdbath for a newspaper column. I will try and dig out the text and images and post it on the site. Jane
What method of staking did you find best to use to keep it upright? Or, did you built it with a stand? It’s such a cute project! Thank you for sharing it.
Hi Michell
This fence actually went up against a raised garden so the bottom was screwed into the wood framing on the garden. However, you could attach treated stakes or posts to the back of the fence and insert these into the ground.
This idea was absolutely wonderful. My twins and I worked together on this project for a Mother’s Day gift. Thanks so much for the inspiration. The final product is beautiful.
That’s wonderful! Sounds like you had fun making it.
love this design. We’re building a two-sided version to serve as a camoflauge for the AC compressor unit in the back yard.
Thanx for the excellent DIY idea!
Great! I would love to see a photo when you have finished, Charlotte. 🙂