vintage garden
For the Birds
When it comes to nesting grounds for our feathered friends, we’re far from square. Check out these vintage houses created by Abby at The Birddog Patio. Abby says: “My birdhouses are funky and functional because I take advantage of the fact a male Carolina wren will build a nest in almost anything! Aluminum kettles and pitchers (so plentiful at sales and thrift stores) make the perfect bones for a beautiful house. It amazes me to think how someone brought these shiny, modern items into their kitchen and marveled at their futuristic colors and shapes. Not many people keep their orange juice in a Color Craft pitcher any more, but there is some consola- tion in giving a new life to unwanted objects, even if it strays far from the original purpose. “I love finding an item that I know
Abby’s first birdhouse: an aluminum drink pitcher, pewter plate,
will make a wonderful house. It takes me a little time to figure out what direction I’m going with it and what type of trinkets I want to add. Some have turned out very elaborate and others are just a 1-1/4” hole drilled into a great item that needs no embellishment. “Most birds are selective about the type and location of their nest. In Missouri, starting late March or early April, the male Carolina wren will begin building several nests within his territory for his mate to choose from. These monogamous birds stay together and live in this area year round. He will build multiple nests and the female will choose one to lay eggs and raise their young in. They are shy birds but have a beautiful song that becomes easy to recognize. “The first birdhouse I ever put together is hanging in my back- yard and it was a thrilling moment the first time I saw a male wren duck into the house with a twig in his beak. I’m convinced that if hung in a suitable, quiet location with shade and protection, my houses are attractive to wrens and handy for them to use. And I think their appearance only improves with exposure to sun and rain, but I’m not put off by a little rust! jello mold, pastry blend- er, other misc. kitchen gadgets and a vintage brooch on top.
Abby crafted this highly unique bird
palace out of an old salesman’s sample stove.
Just because it wasn’t intended for the garden, doesn’t mean it can’t thrive there. Use items like metal children’s bikes, high chairs, scales and birdcages in new ways by planting in them or displaying seeds. Add candles to a chandelier or stack ceramic animals for touches of whimsy. Intrigue guests with vintage coolers, almanacs for reading, and outdoor-inspired napkin rings. Finally, turn baskets upside down for light fixtures and elevate plants under a trellis to maximize green space.
Find The Birddog Patio at Bottoms Up, The Fleeting Flea and follow them on Facebook.
VintageKC / Spring 2013 25
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