Creating Bird Seed Ornaments: A Unique Wedding Idea

Birdseed ornaments are a fun, easy, and economical DIY project that can be used as wedding favours or to decorate your wedding venue. They are made using a simple mixture of birdseed, gelatin, and water, with optional dried fruit and nuts, and are formed into shapes using cookie cutters. The ornaments can be hung outside to feed hungry birds and will last for several days.

Choosing the right cookie cutters

Cookie cutters are a key part of making birdseed ornaments, as they give the ornaments their shape. Here are some tips for choosing the right cookie cutters for your birdseed wedding ornaments:

Choose the Right Shape and Size

The shape and size of the cookie cutter will determine the final look of your birdseed ornaments. Choose a shape that fits the theme of your wedding. For example, you could use heart-shaped cookie cutters for a romantic touch or bird-shaped cutters for a whimsical feel. Consider the size of the cutters as well; larger cutters will create more substantial ornaments, while smaller cutters will result in delicate, dainty decorations.

Select a Material That Works for You

Cookie cutters come in various materials, including metal, plastic, and silicone. Metal cutters tend to be the most durable and easiest to work with, as they create clean, sharp edges. Plastic cutters are usually more affordable and colourful, adding a playful touch to your crafting. Silicone cutters are flexible and ideal for intricate shapes, but they may not hold their shape as well with the birdseed mixture.

Consider the Details

Look for cookie cutters with intricate details or unique features to make your ornaments stand out. For example, cutters with scalloped edges or embossed patterns can add a touch of elegance to your designs. You could also opt for cutters with a smooth surface if you plan to decorate the ornaments further with ribbons, glitter, or other embellishments.

Think About Ease of Use

If you're making these birdseed ornaments as a DIY project with your wedding party, consider the ease of use of the cookie cutters. Some cutters might be too intricate or delicate for beginners, so opt for simpler shapes if you're working with a group. Additionally, consider the comfort of the handles, as you'll need to apply some pressure when filling the cutters with the birdseed mixture.

Plan for Quantity

Finally, determine how many ornaments you need for your wedding and choose cookie cutters accordingly. If you require a large quantity, ensure you have multiple sets of cutters or enough cutters to work in batches efficiently. Having a variety of shapes and sizes will also add interest and diversity to your birdseed ornament wedding favours or decorations.

Making the birdseed mixture

Ingredients:

• Birdseed (2-2.5 cups)
• Gelatin (2-3 packets)
• Corn syrup (optional) (2 tablespoons)
• Flour (optional) (1/4 cup)
• Water (1/2 - 3/4 cup)
• Cookie cutters
• Parchment paper
• Straws or skewers
• Ribbon or twine

Method:

• Prepare the gelatin by following the instructions on the packet. In a bowl, mix the gelatin with cold water (1/2 cup), then add boiling water (1/2 cup) and stir until dissolved.
• (Optional) Add corn syrup (2 tablespoons) to the gelatin mixture and stir until combined.
• Add the birdseed to the mixture and stir well. You may also choose to add dried fruit, nuts, or other bird-safe treats to the mix.
• Place the bowl in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the mixture to thicken.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange your cookie cutters on top.
• Remove the birdseed mixture from the refrigerator and spoon it into the cookie cutters, pressing down firmly to pack the mixture tightly and fill any gaps. Fill the cookie cutters to the top.
• Create a hole for hanging by inserting a straw or skewer into each ornament, leaving at least 1/2" of space between the hole and the edge.
• Place the ornaments in the refrigerator to set and harden for a couple of hours or overnight.
• Once hardened, gently remove the ornaments from the cookie cutters and straws/skewers.
• Thread ribbon or twine through the holes and they're ready to hang!

Tips:

• Ensure the mixture is packed tightly into the cookie cutters to help the ornaments hold their shape.
• Allow the ornaments to cure and air dry for a few days before packaging or hanging to prevent mould.
• Store in an airtight container for a day or two, or freeze for longer storage.
• To prevent sticking, you can grease your cookie cutters with non-stick spray or coconut oil, although this is not necessary.
• If the mixture becomes too dry and crumbly, add a little water or reheat to liquefy the gelatin.

Your birdseed ornaments will make beautiful, natural decorations for your wedding and will provide a lovely treat for the birds!

Adding the mixture to cookie cutters

Now that you've prepared your birdseed mixture, it's time to add it to your cookie cutters. This process will be slightly different depending on the type of cookie cutters you're using, but the general idea is the same.

First, make sure your cookie cutters are placed on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This will make it easier to move them around and catch any spills. If you're using metal cookie cutters, you may want to lightly grease them with cooking spray or coconut oil to make the removal process easier later on. However, this step is not necessary if you're using silicone cookie cutters.

Next, fill each cookie cutter with the birdseed mixture. Use a spoon to pack the mixture down firmly, making sure to fill all the gaps and crevices. Fill the cookie cutters to the very top, and don't skimp on this part – the more packed-in the mixture is, the better your ornaments will hold their shape.

At this point, you can also add a small loop of untreated hemp twine, raffia, ribbon, or string to create a hanger for your ornament. Simply place the loop in the middle of each cookie cutter and fill the rest of the way with the birdseed mixture, making sure to cover the string.

Once your cookie cutters are filled, it's time to let them set and dry. Place them in the refrigerator or freezer to speed up this process. The drying time will vary depending on the size and thickness of your ornaments, but it generally takes a couple of hours or overnight.

After your ornaments have dried, it's time to remove them from the cookie cutters. Gently press the edges of the cookie cutter away from the shape, and then gently push the ornament out. If you greased your cookie cutters, this process should be relatively easy.

And that's it! You've now successfully made birdseed ornaments using cookie cutters. Feel free to add some additional decorations or packaging to make them even more festive and gift-ready.

Drying the ornaments

Air Drying:

Allowing the ornaments to air dry is a common method suggested by many sources. Here are the steps to follow:

• Lay out your ornaments on a flat surface, such as a countertop, or place them outside in a cold, dry area.
• Leave the ornaments to cure and air dry for several days. The exact drying time may vary depending on the climate and humidity levels in your area.
• Ensure there is good ventilation during the drying process to prevent mould from forming.
• If you live in an area with high humidity, consider placing the ornaments in front of a dehumidifier to accelerate the drying process.

Refrigeration or Freezing:

Using cold temperatures can also help dry and harden the ornaments:

• Place the ornaments in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This will help them solidify and maintain their shape.
• If you're in a hurry, you can put the trays of ornaments in the freezer to speed up the drying process. However, be careful not to freeze the ornaments for too long, as this may affect the quality of the birdseed.

Drying Time:

The drying time for the ornaments can vary depending on the method used and the climate conditions:

• Air drying: Leave the ornaments to dry for several days.
• Refrigeration: Refrigerate the ornaments for a few hours or overnight.
• Freezing: Place the ornaments in the freezer for a shorter period, checking regularly to ensure they don't freeze for too long.

Additional Tips:

• Make sure the ornaments are completely dry before packaging or hanging them.
• If you're making a large batch, work in smaller batches to ensure the mixture doesn't dry out while you're filling the cookie cutters.
• If you're using a wreath mould, place it in the refrigerator or outside in cold air to chill thoroughly before unmoulding.
• If you live in an area with high humidity, consider poking holes in the packaging to allow airflow and prevent mould from forming.

Packaging and storing the ornaments

Packaging and storing your birdseed ornaments is an important step in the process of making them. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you with this stage:

Packaging:

• Allow the ornaments to cure and air dry for at least 24 hours before packaging them. This will ensure that they are completely dried and hardened.
• If you are in a hurry, you can package them sooner, but allowing more time for curing will lead to better results.
• Use attractive packaging such as burlap, tissue paper, and bows to showcase your ornaments. You can also add natural elements like dried bay leaves and berries to enhance their appearance.
• If you are packaging multiple ornaments together, separate them with layers of tissue paper to prevent breakage.
• For wedding favours, you can add a ribbon and gift tag to each ornament, personalising them for your guests.

Storing:

• Birdseed ornaments can spoil over time, especially if stored improperly, so it is important to take the necessary precautions.
• If you are not using the ornaments right away, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for a day or two.
• For longer storage, it is best to freeze the ornaments. This will help prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mould and sprouting.
• If you live in an area with high humidity, consider using a dehumidifier to create a dry storage environment.
• Properly stored birdseed ornaments can last for up to 4-6 months. Always check for spoilage before hanging them outside, especially if they have been stored for an extended period.
• If you notice any signs of mould or spoilage, discard the ornaments and start a fresh batch.

By following these packaging and storing instructions, your birdseed ornaments will not only look beautiful but also remain fresh and safe for the birds to enjoy.

Frequently asked questions