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Suet feeders for birds

Clip-on cedar cup feeder

Three separate suet feeder builds: a skillet-covered log, a slatted column, and a clip-on cedar cup.

Configuration

Clip-on cedar cup feeder
Download Plan

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Download AllZIP · All individual files for this configurationEditable FreeCAD assemblyFCSTD · Editable FreeCAD assembly for clip-on cedar cup feeder.STEP exchange assemblySTEP · STEP exchange assembly for clip-on cedar cup feeder.Shopping listCSV · Shopping list for clip-on cedar cup feeder.Cut listCSV · Cut list for clip-on cedar cup feeder.CAD and materials packageZIP · The sanitized CAD models, Blender scene, shopping list and cut list. Read the instructions and drawings on this page.Blender sceneBLEND · Editable assembly meshes, simple materials, three cameras and studio lights. The gallery images show the separately rendered wood finish.
View Instructions
  • Revision: 1
  • Last updated:
  • Steps: 5
  • Difficulty: intermediate
  • License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 International

    You may share and adapt this design for noncommercial use with credit. Link to the license, note any changes, and use the same license for adaptations.

    Read the license ↗
Before you start
  • Use only sound untreated wood. Wear eye protection, clamp round stock in a V-block, and use a drill depth stop.
  • Dimensions are in inches. These CAD assemblies have not been physically built or load-tested. Purchased hardware is schematic; measure it before drilling.
  • Choose a secure support and rated hanging hardware for the finished feeder. Keep the feeder accessible for inspection and cleaning.
  • Use a 2 in cup with a 1 in bore, 1 3/8 in outside diameter, and 3/16 in walls.
  • The wooden spring clothespin is a purchased part, shown nominally 3 1/4 in long. Its jaws and spring are schematic. Match the screw position to the actual jaw without drilling the spring.
  • The cavity opens downwards as drawn. A 1 in thick top plug provides screw embedment; use a 3/4 in screw and confirm it cannot enter the feed cavity.
Plan details

Clip-on cedar cup feeder

A small blind cedar cup attached to a wooden spring clothespin.

Three separate suet feeder builds: a skillet-covered log, a slatted column, and a clip-on cedar cup. Follow the illustrated assembly steps and dimensioned drawings. Matching downloads include editable CAD, exchange models, shopping and cut lists, and a Blender scene.

Open model.FCStd in FreeCAD. Parts are separately labeled and carry stock descriptions.

Open model.step for an exchange assembly in CAD software.

Edit the native CAD model to change dimensions. Purchased hardware shapes are schematic, and changes require checking fit and remaking the schedules.

Dimensions and opening sizes
Cedar cup length
2 in
Cedar cup outside diameter
1 3/8 in
Feed cavity diameter
1 in
Feed cavity depth
1 in
Cup wall thickness
3/16 in
Shopping list
Download shopping list
BuyMaterialStock size
1 pieceUntreated cedar dowel or turned blank1-3/8 in diameter x at least 3 in
1 pieceWooden spring clothespinAbout 3-1/4 in long; sound wood
1 pieceExterior pan-head wood screw#6 x 3/4 in
Quantity notes

Stock for one complete feeder of this configuration; allowances included where noted.

    Required installation supplies

    • Choose a support that the actual clothespin grips securely.
    Tools & equipment
    • Tape measure, square, pencil and center punch
    • Saw suitable for wood and selected metal hardware
    • Drill, V-block and clamps, 1 in boring bit and depth stop
    • Pilot bits and screwdriver for selected hardware
    • Sandpaper and deburring file

    BEFORE YOU BUILD

    Use this work at your own risk

    These files have not been checked for accuracy, safety, structural adequacy, or building-code compliance. They may contain serious errors and are not construction-ready. Obtain independent qualified design and review before building.

    No person or organization makes any guarantee or warranty, express or implied, regarding this design, its documentation, digital files, or website views. They are not professional services and do not create an architect-client or other professional-client relationship. No promise is made about accuracy, completeness, reliability, code compliance, or fitness for your project.

    Buildings and building projects are complex, and many things can go wrong. You are responsible for checking dimensions and site conditions, choosing suitable materials and methods, obtaining permits, following codes and manufacturer instructions, and getting qualified professional help when needed. To the fullest extent permitted by law, DIYPlans.org disclaims liability for damages resulting from use of this work. Read the FAQ about your responsibilities.

    Instructions

    Download

    Step 1 Cut and mark the cedar cup

    Dimensioned cutting and drilling layout for clip-on cedar cup feeder.
    • Cut an untreated cedar blank to 2 in long and 1-3/8 in outside diameter.
    • Mark the center on both end faces. Mark the lower end as the feeding opening.
    • Reject splits that cross the cup wall or the upper attachment area.

    Check: Reject splits that cross the cup wall or the upper attachment area.

    Step 2 Bore the feed cavity

    Bore the feed cavity. Current parts orange; prior parts gray.
    • Clamp the blank in a V-block with the lower end facing the bit.
    • Use a 1 in bit and a depth stop to drill exactly 1 in into the lower end. Leave the upper 1 in solid.
    • Smooth the rim and remove loose splinters. The remaining side wall is 3/16 in thick.

    Check: Smooth the rim and remove loose splinters. The remaining side wall is 3/16 in thick.

    Step 3 Fit the clothespin

    Fit the clothespin. Current parts orange; prior parts gray.
    • Choose a sound wooden spring clothespin. Open and close it before drilling.
    • Hold the upper end of the cup beneath the lower jaw, clear of the spring and gripping end. Mark a centered screw clearance hole through that jaw only.
    • Drill the jaw clearance hole. Drill a pilot into the center of the solid cup top, sized for the selected #6 screw.

    Check: Drill the jaw clearance hole. Drill a pilot into the center of the solid cup top, sized for the selected #6 screw.

    Step 4 Attach the cup

    Attach the cup. Current parts orange; prior parts gray.
    • Drive a #6 x 3/4 in exterior screw through the lower jaw into the cup top.
    • Tighten gently so the jaw does not split. Confirm that the screw tip stays clear of the feeding cavity.
    • Operate the clip and check that the upper jaw clears the screw head.

    Check: Operate the clip and check that the upper jaw clears the screw head.

    Step 5 Clip the feeder in place

    Complete clip-on cedar cup feeder.
    • Press suet into the blind cavity. Hold the cup with its opening downwards as shown.
    • Clip to a firm, sheltered support where the spring grips securely. Check the grip before releasing the feeder.
    • Remove old suet and clean the cup before refilling. Replace a cracked cup, weak spring, or loose jaw.

    Check: The clip grips securely and the feed cavity remains clear of the screw.

    Sources

    Functional dimensions informed by the cited Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife woodworking sheet. CAD, instructions, schedules and illustrations authored for DIY Plans.

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