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to create the hole, depending on the desired size and what sort of look you are trying to achieve. If you are leaving your gourd all natural, you might want to consider a hole that is irregularly shaped. If you're looking to create a perfect circle a jigsaw with a scroll cutting blade is a great tool. If you want to get really fancy, you can buy plastic entrance assy's and access ports which have build in perches and will create a more finished, professional look. In this case however, you will definitely need a jigsaw and considerably more time to spare, especially if this is your first gourd birdhouse. Information on ordering parts and pieces can be found at http://sk-mfg.com/

Don't worry. We're almost finished. Once your have created the entrance, you need to remove the seeds and other debris from inside the gourd. Depending on the size of the hole, you may need a stick or spoon or you might be able to just use your hands. Don't worry about scraping the gourd clean, just remove whatever you can get at. If you plan on growing more gourds, save the seeds and store them in an air-tight container that mice and other varmints won't be able to get into.

Now for the finishing touches. You will need to drill a few drainage holes in the bottom of the gourd to help keep it dry. One-fourth or three-eighths inch drill bits work nicely for most size gourds. It can also be a good idea to attach a small perch just below the entrance hole. If you are going for a more natural look, you could use a twisted piece of gourd stem or a sturdy twig or if you want a more finished look, a dowel cut down to a few inches in length will do the trick.

To hang your new creation, simply attach a wire through the stem if you plan on hanging it this way. The closer the wire to where the stem meets the gourd, the more secure that it will be. An even better idea is to drill two more holes near the top of the gourd through which you can thread a piece of wire. The first option will help maintain a natural look, but the second option is probably best to ensure that the birdhouse doesn't fall to the ground during a storm. Hang your birdhouse wherever you like. Somewhere where it will be somewhat protected from the elements is ideal and obviously you might want it where you can enjoy the view from a window or patio.

Now all you have to do is sit back and enjoy watching your new feathered friends as they take up residence in their new home!

Learn more about this author, Marie Gerber.
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