CRT 300 Rapid & Improvisational Prototyping - #1 Hackathon
TEAPOT BIRDHOUSE
By: Bailey Henderson
Details:
My inspiration to start this project was the whole idea of learning a new skill. This was my first "Hackathon," and I really wanted to do something I had never done before. Therefore, I decided to do woodworking! My project is not just an ordinary birdhouse. It's a birdhouse made from a tea set. The teapot acts as the birdhouse, and the cup and plate can be used to store birdfeed or water.
Importance:
My custom birdhouse is pretty unique and special to me for numerous reasons. Firstly, I made it by learning a whole new skill. The birdhouse also incorporates my other major, Environmental Science. It is really cool that I can display both of my interests in one single project. Lastly, a very meaningful person in my life, my late Grandfather, was an avid birdwatcher. He really loved anything to do with birds. So, I feel that this project would make him proud.
Steps:
1. First, I had to establish my plans for the project. I did this by creating a quick sketch, including some inspiration pictures I discovered on Pinterest. Below is a picture of my sketch and inspiration board.
2. Next, I had to collect all the materials I wanted to use. This included the tea set, twine, spray paint, and wood. After getting my workspace set up, I put out everything I wanted to use. Below is a picture of that preparation.
3. I then began to cut, shape, and my wood using various tools in the woodshop, such as a chop-saw and a handheld sander. I also began to attach the wood together using a Brad Nailer, wood glue, and clamps to ensure stability. Below is a picture of this process.
4. After everything was put together, I had to make sure it was structurally sound. The shelf on the bottom did have some movement, so I added a few screws to help make it more stable. Below is a picture of the basic structure.
5. Next, it was time to paint. I used painter's tape to cover up the places on the wood I wanted to attach my tea set to. I did this because I was concerned that the spray paint would make it difficult for the tea set to be secure to the wood. Below is a picture of the structure with the painter's tape removed.
6. After allowing the paint to dry, it was time to attach the tea set. I attached the teapot, teacup, and tea plate with high-temperature hot glue. Then I used my twine to add some decoration. Finally, it was done! Below is a picture of the finished product.
