20. Rustic Antique Enamelware Basin Ground Feeder
Introduction
A low-profile ground feeding station created by elevating a vintage enamelware basin or shallow basin on a wrought iron ring stand within flower beds or gravel paths.
What This Idea Means
Designed specifically for ground-feeding bird species (such as mourning doves, juncos, towhees, and sparrows), this feeder reclaims vintage speckled enamel cookware into an open, accessible feeding station that blends smoothly into cottage garden borders.
How to Make It
- Source a vintage speckled enamelware pie dish or shallow basin (approx. 10 to 12 inches wide).
- Drill several 1/8-inch drainage holes through the bottom of the basin using a metal drill bit, then touch up the raw drilled metal edges with clear rust-proof sealer.
- Place a low 6-inch tall wrought iron trivet or plant stand in a clear spot within your garden path or flower bed.
- Set the enamelware basin securely on top of the iron stand to elevate it slightly above soil dampness and crawling insects.
- Fill the basin with a ground-feeder seed mix consisting of cracked corn, white millet, and sunflower chips.
Tips and Variations
- Tip: Place this ground feeder at least 10 feet away from low bushes where predators (like neighborhood cats) could hide.
- Variation: Surround the base of the iron stand with low-growing thymes or sedums to anchor the feeder into the landscape layout.
What You Need to Make It
- Vintage Speckled Enamelware Basin
- Low Wrought Iron Plant Stand / Trivet
- Cordless Drill & 1/8-inch Metal Bit
- Clear Rust-Proof Sealer
- Ground-Feeder Seed Mix
