How To Make A Unique Birdbath Using An Old Tree Stump

Tree stumps are surprisingly common in many home landscapes, especially when they're left behind after a tree removal. With the average cost of full stump grinding totaling $368, you can see why many homeowners opt to leave them in place. But that doesn't mean a stump has to sit there like a log (pun intended). Instead of seeing it as yard waste, consider transforming it into something beautiful and functional like a birdbath that adds charm and life to your outdoor space.

Water is one of the most powerful tools for attracting birds to your backyard. All birds, whether they visit feeders or not, need fresh water to drink and to bathe. A birdbath supports both hydration and preening, helping birds regulate body temperature and keep their feathers clean and parasite-free. In fact, water features often draw more feathered visitors than food alone. So, if you're looking for a creative way to repurpose that old stump, a DIY birdbath is a win for both your yard and your local wildlife.

Start by making sure your tree stump is sturdy, solid wood that isn't rotting or crumbling; not all stumps may work for this craft. From there, you'll want to carve out the top to create a shallow bowl, similar to what YouTuber Maker of Many Things did in his popular DIY video. Aim for a bird-friendly shape when building a birdbath: around 1 inch deep at the edges and 2 inches in the center. He even carved a small hollow in the side of the stump to tuck in a hanging bird feeder. Once your shape is roughed out, clean up any loose debris or rough edges.

Next, mix up mortar to a putty-like consistency (gloves are a must), and press it firmly into the carved bowl. Use your hands or a trowel to smooth it out and finish the edges with a damp paintbrush to create a clean surface. Once dry, which usually takes 24 to 48 hours, your stump will have a weather-ready basin to hold water. As a final touch, Maker of Many Things added a feeder at the base of the stump to keep seed dry during storms, which is an easy way to combine water and food into one eye-catching feature. Add a few stones to your finished bath so birds can perch safely while they drink or bathe. Then sit back and enjoy your new feathered visitors. And when it's time to clean your birdbath, skip common household cleaners and opt for a brush and water. This will ensure your winged friends stay healthy.