From Sketch to Nest: How to Build the Bird Bridge

Hi! I'm Kim, and this is my first Instructable. I created this modern, eco-friendly birdhouse as part of a school project to help make our garden greener and more inviting for birds. This birdhouse blends sustainability, style, and function and was designed using recycled materials, built by hand, and developed in Tinkercad.

Materials:

1. Reclaimed pine wood
2. Galvanized screws
3. Non-toxic matte outdoor paint (brown/green tones)
4. Wood glue
5. Sandpaper

Tools:

1. Table saw
2. Pillar drill
3. Clamps
4. Measuring tape
5. Paintbrush

Digital Tools:

1. Thinkercad

Goal:

Design and build a birdhouse that is sustainable, attractive, and safe for small garden birds.

I researched:

1. Bird-safe materials and dimensions
2. Ideal hole sizes (3–5 cm for small birds)
3. Preferred colours (earthy tones)
4. Locations (quiet, tree-shaded areas)
5. Sustainable construction

Then I created sketches and a paper prototype before jumping to CAD.

I created a 3D model of my birdhouse using Tinkercad, complete with:

1. Two internal compartments
2. Bridge-style front with railing
3. Functional sloped roof
4. Entry holes with proper spacing

This helped me visualize the structure and create an exploded view, orthographic projections, and working drawings.

Cut out paper stencils to test the sizes.

Measured and marked pine wood based on the stencils.

Used the table saw and drill to cut all panels and entry holes.

Assembled the panels with glue and screws.

Painted the birdhouse in two coats of eco-safe paint. And thinker around with the bridge railings.

The final birdhouse:

1. Has a modern, structured look with two compartments
2. Is sturdy, weather-resistant, and wind-tested
3. Blends well into nature with its earthy colours
4. Is safe for birds: smooth edges, proper ventilation, and drainage

Photos of the finished birdhouse can be seen below!

Weather test: Survived light rain and strong winds

Function test: Attracted birds within days

Safety: Smooth edges, non-toxic paint, and predator-safe

Eco-friendly: Used recycled wood and durable materials