How to Make Bird Seed Ornaments

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Heat water in the microwave using a microwave-safe glass measuring cup.

   Microwave the water for about 30 seconds.
   
   The water should be hot to the touch but does not need to boil.
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   Step 2: Whisk unflavored gelatin into the water.

   Only whisk the gelatin into the water long enough for it to dissolve. , Stir the corn syrup long enough for it to dissolve. , The two should be thoroughly combined. , Use a large spoon to mix all ingredients well until a thick, sticky mass forms. , You can use any cookie cutter shape you want, but larger shapes tend to be easier to work with than smaller ones and may attract more birds. , Wax paper or nonstick cooking foil can also be used. , You will need to work directly with the sticky bird seed mixture, and cooking spray will reduce the amount of seed that gets stuck to your skin. , Press the seed mix into the cookie cutter with your hands until it feels firm and compact. , Immediately remove it after inserting it into the seed to create a hole.
   
   The hole will allow you to tie the ornament onto the tree.
   
   You can create the hole anywhere, but the closer it is to the center, the sturdier the ornament will be and the longer it will last. , Do so carefully, "wiggling" it free and gently holding the seed in place with your fingers if necessary. , You may need to spray the cookie cutter with additional nonstick spray after every one or two moldings. , Allow them to sit in a cool spot, such as a basement or refrigerator. , Tie the string, leaving enough empty space to slip the loop over a tree branch.
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   Step 3: Whisk corn syrup into the water.

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   Step 4: In a separate bowl

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   Step 5: mix together bird seed with flour.

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   Step 6: Gradually pour the gelatin solution into the bird seed and flour.

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   Step 7: Spray the inside of a cookie cutter with nonstick spray.

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   Step 8: Place the cookie cutter on a large sheet of parchment paper.

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   Step 9: Spray your fingers with nonstick cooking spray.

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    Step 10: Spoon the bird seed mixture into the prepared cookie cutter.

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    Step 11: Insert a chopstick

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    Step 12: wooden dowel

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    Step 13: or the handle of a wooden spoon into the bird seed packed inside the mold.

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    Step 14: Remove the cookie cutter from the bird seed.

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    Step 15: Repeat the molding process with the rest of your bird seed mixture.

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    Step 16: Dry the bird seed ornaments overnight.

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    Step 17: String a separate piece of yarn or thick string through the hole in each ornament.

Detailed Guide

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