Want to learn how to make your own bird bath? Are you enamored by a copper solar bird bath in a catalog, but you don't want to spend the money for the premade version? You can make your own copper bird bath and simply buy the solar-powered fountain, if you are willing to invest a little time and energy into this project.
Get a Sheet of Copper
You'll need to buy a sheet of 16 mil copper. The most common size bird bath can be crafted from a sheet that is 24" by 24". Note that copper can be expensive; the purer the copper, the higher the price. If you want something durable, however, it's best to choose pure copper over metal that's been electroplated with copper. Once your fountain starts to run, the water can erode electroplated copper, revealing the metal underneath.
Put on Heavy Work Gloves
You'll need a set of metal-cutting shears and thick work gloves made of cotton or leather. Copper isn't too difficult to work, but you will be dealing with some sharp edges that can cut through your skin like a razor. Don't skimp on the gloves; your hands will thank you.
Trace a Circle
Trace a circle onto your sheet of copper. Using the metal snips, cut the circle out of the sheet of copper. The larger the circle, the larger your bird bath. A circle 18" to 20" in diameter is a good size.
Don't try to cut the entire circle at once, or you'll wind up binding the metal-cutting shears. Trim out about a quarter of the shape at a time, then cut the excess metal away to the edges of the sheet.
Hammer Your Copper Circle
Place the copper circle onto a piece of carpet, watching out for the sharp edges. Using a ball peen hammer, gently hammer the copper circle until you have attractive dents in the sheet. Start in the middle of the circle and work your way out in a circular pattern. When your bird bath has taken on a bowl-like shape, stop.
Flip the sheet over onto an inverted basin that's about the right shape and size. You want to use a shallow basin, no deeper than three inches deep in the center, as a guide. Gently hammer the basin until it has taken the right shape. You'll need to use some force to shape the copper, so don't use a glass or clay basin that could shatter.
Power Sand the Rim
Use a power sander to smooth the cut edge of the copper. Take your time with this part; it may take a lot of patience, but it's necessary to prevent injuries to you and the birds.
Install Your Bird Bath
Install your bird bath on an inverted clay pot. Add a solar-powered bird bath fountain in the center and fill with water. Be sure to clean it every few days with bird bath cleaner and replace the water.
Keywords: how to make a bird bath, copper solar bird bath, bird bath cleaner
Primary Sources: http://www.birdwatching.com/tips/birdbaths.html, http://www.bird-house-bath.com/solar-powered-bird-baths.html
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