Decorative birdcages can make stunning statements as centerpieces or ornamental art, but the price tag on many commercially available styles is prohibitive. You can make your own birdcage out of willow branches, however, and build it to any size you like. The finished product is perfect for housing holiday decorations or even a small potted plant.
Instructions
1. Wash and dry the willow branches, and trim any protruding twigs or exceptionally long ends.
2. Bend two willow sticks into a circle of the circumference you desire (12 to 14 inches across is a good size).
3. Tie the twigs firmly together at the ends with twine and cut any excess length. Wrap more twine around the connection point to add stability and hide trimmed ends. Make a second circle of the same size and set aside.
4. Create the birdcage base out of one of the circles. Cut one piece of willow to fit the widest point across the circle and tie it firmly in place. Working in a parallel fashion out from this central stick, continue cutting and tying willow approximately every ¾ inch across the circle. Rest the finished base on a flat work surface.
5. Attach the cage bars. Tie vertically oriented twigs firmly in place with twine, working one at a time every ¾ inch around the base. Once three to four twigs have been attached, tie in the second circular support hoop inside of the vertical twigs (approximately 5 to 8 inches up from the base). Continue to attach the vertical bars to the base and support hoop until the circle is completed.
6. Gather the long ends of the twigs firmly in one hand to close the top of the birdcage. Crossing the twigs over each other in an arch shape lends a much more attractive curve than simply clumping them and tying. Adjust the willow sticks to get the look you want and bind firmly together.
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