This Make & Take introduces attendees to assembling pieces of wood, hammering, and using a drill. This is all about having a positive introductory tool experience with the end result being a birdhouse that each person gets to bring home.

Agenda:

• Introduction & Overview (15 minutes): We show you what to do, how the birdhouse should go together, and tips & tricks for getting it perfect.

• Assembly & Hammering (45 minutes): You put the pieces together, put the nails where they need to go, and hammer away!

• Laser Engraving (40 minutes): We take you individually to laser engrave anything of your choosing onto one side of the birdhouse (most people pick the front, but any side works!). Examples include short text (“Emma’s Bird Hotel”, “Happy Mother’s Day”, etc.) or small images (flowers, birds, etc.).

• Wrap-up (20 minutes): Put the final pieces on (the perch and the back hanger) and clean up your area!

This workshop is open to all and assumes no prior tool experience. Please keep in mind that the drilling, hammering, and cutting requires some handiwork. If you’re bringing someone under 13, please plan on joining them to assist. Each spot purchased includes one kit — if requested, we’ll have two seats available so you can share the kit and experience with a partner!

On top of being a fantastic Make & Take, this workshop directly supports your local makerspace!

Interested in learning more about birds? Check out these fantastic organizations:

• Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance promotes conservation of wildlife, with a particular focus on birds.

• Bird Center of Michigan is aiding birds, wildlife, and the environment through rehabilitation and education.

• Leslie Science and Nature Center supports birds of prey that due to injury can no longer survive in the wild.

• NestWatch is an online resource run by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and has TONS of information.

Check the calendar below to see if we’ve already scheduled a class that works for you!

No classes available or none that fit with your schedule? We may be able to schedule one by request. Note that requests may require a 4+ week lead time.