I doubt I’m the only one that sees bird cages at garage sales or thrift stores and gets a quickened heart rate. My family and I adore birds, but don’t keep any of them caged up. However, the cages themselves are so unique in design that they can be a work of art. Take this one for instance. It is somewhat petite and ready to become my upcycled bird cage project.
I just love learning bits about how trends began, like bird-keeping.
The history of the bird cage ties to the adoption of birds as pets. Birds were caged for their beauty and mystery nearly four centuries ago in ancient Egypt. Doves and parrots were favorites of the Egyptians and are depicted in hieroglyphics. The Mynah is also a sacred bird in India for at least 2,000 years as well. The birds were pulled through the streets on oxen, likely in crude cages to ensure they would not escape.
It is difficult to determine what some of these cages may have been made of, perhaps wooden twigs, rope mesh, reeds, or bamboo. Some say that Alexander the Great was given a parakeet by one of his generals and the Alexandrine parakeet was named in his honor. Ancient Romans kept and held birds as well. It was considered the duty of a slave to care for the domesticated animal. By the Middle Ages only the wealthy kept caged birds. via Encyclopedia.com
Furthermore, since I’m not about to become a bird owner, I thought it fun to recreate this sweet find into something suitable for farmhouse decor. You can often find antique bird cages used in homes. They can serve as an accent piece, or even as fun garden charm.
LET’S GET CRAFTY
First, I grabbed this bit of rustic reclaimed wood from my endless stash and add it to the bottom as a base. See the large saw marks? I love it!
Next, I attach it with a few screws, which was simple enough. Then, I moved on to adding some height. After digging around in my hardware stash, I find this set of round porcelain knobs that are perfect for “feet”.
Thankfully, I didn’t need to do much other than countersink the screw heads into the board. Finally, my upcycled bird cage is ready for some birding goodies. That’s not a problem for us as we have ample supply since we are birders.
TIME FOR THE REVEAL
This rustic creation looks perfect in my farmhouse style decor. With that in mind, it could also suit most any style home both inside and out. Aren’t the knob feet fun?
If you take a peek on the inside, you’ll see some fun treasures too. Not only do the little doors open, but also the top comes off so you can stage this any way you like.
So…I have to ask. How would you fill it? I definitely considered using succulents for an outdoor planter. Actually, I already did that with this bird feeder, so I wanted something different this time.
Likewise, if you’d like to purchase this bird cage stand, you can find it available in my online shop. I have much to offer, including discounts, so stop by to see.
In addition, I invite you to pin and share my upcycled bird cage creation. I truly aim to inspire you and others to make your house your home.
UP NEXT
Up next, I will be giving these trashed wooden crates a new life for Trash to Treasure Tuesday. See their afters HERE.
To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. PLUS, you will get your FREE Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. Until next time!
Gaye Ludwig says
Thank you Larissa, for the bird cage idea. I’m on the lookout! I think I would put a planter inside and put on the deck picnic table. Your site always perks me up with ideas and encourages me. Thank you for your sharing and honesty. May the Lord bless your home business.
Larissa says
How fun! I’m so glad to hear it, Gaye. Thank you!
Paula@SweetPea says
I love what you did with this birdcage. My grandmother had a birdcage on a stand that I always liked. I wonder what happened to it??
Larissa says
Thanks so much, Paula. I have those same kinds of thoughts about things my grandparents had. Once kids hit, my memory vision is fuzzy. 🙂
Cindy says
Looks really cute. I often see them and think they would look pretty filled with vines. Afraid the weather will do a number on it and it will fall apart.
Cindy
Larissa says
Thanks! They sure offer so many potential uses. And the add fun! 😀
Patty Soriano says
Same here….love bird cages, but don’t have birds. They usually are found without the removable bottom tray, so finding a new base for them is fun, and you’ve hit the nail on the head! Very cute!
Larissa says
Yes! They all seem to be missing their bottom, which is fine for me as I like the wood look. Thanks, Patty!
Kaycee says
What a sweet looking birdcage! I really like the versatility of birdcages for styling, and the wood bottom that you added makes it a breeze to do! I love it!
Larissa says
I’m so glad you think so, Kaycee. Thank you!
bafomet says
This makeover is so lovely 🙂 I really like bird cages but just like you, I prefer birds on the wild than in the cage.
Larissa says
Yes, cages are for decor for me. 🙂 Thank you for the love.