Colorful DIY Birdhouse Motel: A Family-Friendly Backyard Project

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Looking to add a splash of personality and charm to your backyard this summer? Let me introduce you to one of my favorite warm-weather DIYs yet—this Colorful DIY Birdhouse Post! What started as a simple 4×4 post turned into a whimsical, vibrant bird village that makes me smile every time I look out my window.

The best part? It was a true family project—paint-splattered hands, giggles, and everyone bringing their own creativity to life. Whether you’re aiming to attract local birds, looking for a fun outdoor activity with the kids, or just wanting to bring color into your backyard, this project checks all the boxes.

Let’s dive into the how-to, supply list, tips for hanging, and a few bonus summer links you’ll want to pin for later!

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Why We Made It: A Splash of Summer Fun

As the weather warmed up and we started spending more time outside, I felt like our backyard needed a little extra something. I’ve been working on lots of backyard DIYs lately (did you see our checkered fence wall DIY?) and wanted to add a vertical element near our pool and patio area that felt playful and bright—just like summer should be!

When I spotted birdhouses on sale at Michaels, it clicked. This was our next weekend project.

We gathered up a stash of spray paint I already had, picked out a 4×4 post, and let the creativity flow.

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Supplies You’ll Need

This project is super customizable, but here’s everything we used:

Base & Structure:

    •    1 untreated 4×4 wooden post (we used a 6-ft post)

    •    Spray paint or outdoor paint (we used hot pink!)

    •    Quick-set concrete or post anchors (if you’re putting it in the ground)

    •    Nail gun and screws (for stability)

Birdhouses:

    •    15+ small wooden birdhouses (all from Michaels, bought on sale- LINKED HERE]

    •    Acrylic craft paint or outdoor paint

    •    Paintbrushes (in a variety of sizes for detailing)

    •    Sealer (like Mod Podge Outdoor or clear matte spray sealant)

Optional Extras:

    •    Painter’s tape (for stripes or patterns)

    •    Sandpaper (to smooth any rough edges on the birdhouses)

    •    A lazy susan or old box to paint on and spin the houses easily

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Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Prep Your 4×4 Post

We had a spare 4×4 from another DIY, so we simply spray-painted it a soft pink using paint we already had. If your post is brand new, give it a light sand and wipe-down first to remove any dust or rough edges.

Allow your post to dry fully before attaching anything.

Step 2: Paint the Birdhouses

This was the most fun part! Each family member picked a few birdhouses to design, and the only rule was—go bold with color.

We used acrylic paint in rainbow hues, pastels, stripes, polka dots, hearts, and even threw in a mini camper-style birdhouse… the boot was my personal favorite! Some of the birdhouses already had charming cut-outs (like hearts and flowers), so we just leaned into the quirkiness.

Once dry, we sealed each one with clear matte spray sealant to protect them from the elements.

Step 3: Plan Your Layout

Before attaching anything, we arranged the birdhouses on the ground next to the post. We spaced them out unevenly on purpose to give it a playful, stacked effect—like a colorful totem pole for the birds!

Make sure heavier birdhouses go toward the bottom for balance.

Step 4: Attach the Birdhouses

We used a combination of nails and screws—a nail gun to quickly tack them in place and wood screws to support the weight. If your birdhouses are especially small or lightweight, nails alone might do the trick. But for longevity (and active birds), screws are your best friend.

Attach them at various angles—some facing out, some to the side—for dimension.

Step 5: Install the Post

If you’re placing the post directly into the ground, dig a hole about 2 feet deep and use quick-set concrete to secure it. If you want a mobile version (for patios or decks), anchor the post into a heavy planter or create a weighted base with concrete and a bucket.

We chose to cement it into the ground right by our poolside fence, and it adds the cutest pop of color to the backyard.

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Tips for Long-Term Durability

    •    Use exterior-grade paint and sealer to prevent fading or moisture damage.

    •    Reapply sealant every season if your birdhouses are exposed to full sun or rain.

    •    Place your post in an area with some shade to preserve the paint longer.

    •    Add a little bird seed nearby to encourage visitors—just don’t place it directly inside unless your houses are designed for nesting.

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Backyard Bonus: Make It a Summer Tradition

This DIY isn’t just about the finished look—it’s about the experience. Watching my kids carefully paint their little houses, pick color combos, and proudly point out “the one I made” every time we walk by has become one of my favorite memories this season.

This project also inspired me to put together a Summer Bucket List that’s packed with easy, creative ideas just like this one—from backyard movie nights to homemade ice cream

recipes and more. Go check it out if you’re looking to make the most of your sunny days!

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More Backyard Fun You’ll Love

If you’re already dreaming up more ways to decorate or add functionality to your backyard, here are a few of my favorite summer blog posts:

    •    Our Checkered Fence DIY – A bold black-and-white moment that added MAJOR style to our pool equipment area.

    •    Summer Salsa Recipe – A fresh, spicy salsa perfect for pool days and BBQs (and it makes a great neighbor gift too!).

    •    DIY Outdoor Movie Night Set-Up – Coming soon!

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Why This Project is a Win for Everyone

Here’s what makes this DIY birdhouse pole such a hit:

    •    Family-friendly: It’s fun for all ages. Even the youngest family members can join in painting!

    •    Budget-conscious: We used what we had and shopped sales—making this both festive and affordable.

    •    Customizable: You can add seasonal decor, switch out birdhouses, or repaint the post as your style evolves.

    •    Functional decor: Not only is it cute—it also attracts local wildlife.

Plus, it makes your yard look straight out of a fairytale.

Think Outside the Birdhouse: Creative Ideas for This DIY

One thing I always love to share when I post a DIY is how to think outside the box. Sure, this birdhouse pole looks adorable in our backyard—but this project has so much more potential than just home decor.

We actually made ours on Mother’s Day—and let me tell you, it was the sweetest, most meaningful memory. My kids helped paint the houses, picked the colors, and proudly showed off their work. It was a simple moment that turned into something so special.

But this DIY would also be amazing for:

Girls Night In

Grab your besties, some wine (or mocktails), and turn your kitchen table into a paint party. Everyone picks their own birdhouse to decorate and take home—or contribute one to a group birdhouse post you can install at someone’s house as a gift!

Classroom Activity

Teachers—this is a hit! Pick up birdhouses in bulk when they go on sale and let students personalize one with their name or favorite colors. It could tie into a spring unit on birds or habitats too!

Birthday or Mother’s Day Gift

Let the kids decorate a birdhouse (or a whole set!) for Mom, Grandma, or a favorite teacher. Wrap it up with a handwritten note, and you’ve got a sentimental, handmade gift that’s full of heart and creativity.

Grandparents Day Gift

Mark your calendars—Grandparents Day is the first Sunday after Labor Day. Surprise Grandma or Grandpa with a custom-painted birdhouse from the kids, or spend the day together painting them as a bonding activity. Bonus: It’s a gift and a memory all in one.

Backyard Party Craft Station

Hosting a summer party or family BBQ? Set up a birdhouse-painting station! Kids and adults alike will have fun painting their own little masterpiece—and it doubles as a take-home favor.

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Budget Tip: Buy on Sale + Stack Those Coupons

I snagged all of our birdhouses at Michaels when they were 50% off, and I highly recommend watching for those sales. Michaels also regularly offers 20% off coupons that you can stack on top of sale prices, especially if you’re buying multiple.

You can also grab spray paint, acrylics, and sealer there—or use what you already have at home like we did!

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Final Thoughts: Let Birds Nest in Style

If you’re looking for a summer DIY that’s bursting with color, packed with charm, and loaded with meaning—this is it.

I’ll be sharing more DIYs and family projects all summer long, so stay tuned and don’t forget to check out our Summer Bucket List and my favorite checkered fence project to keep the backyard fun going.

And hey—if you decide to create your own colorful birdhouse display, I would LOVE to see it! Tag me on Instagram @AshtonSedita and use the hashtag #FestiveQueen so I can cheer you on.

Happy nesting!

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FTC Disclaimer:

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you! I only link to products I love and use myself. These commissions help me continue to bring you festive, fun DIYs year-round.

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Follow & Share

If this post inspired you, don’t forget to:

    •    Follow me on social @AshtonSedita

    •    Pin this post for later

    •    Tag me in your creations

    •    And subscribe to my newsletter for seasonal DIYs, recipes, and more!

XOXO, Ashton