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Birdhouses have always been a favorite project for woodworking enthusiasts, but Martin birdhouses—also known as Martin boxes—offer something special. Not only do they serve a functional purpose for bird lovers, but they also present a surprising opportunity for profit.
With just four fence pickets and about $8 worth of material, it’s possible to build a large, decorative Martin box that can sell for hundreds of dollars. While most of today’s options are made from cheap, unattractive plastic, wooden Martin houses are rare—and that scarcity makes them highly valuable.
Key Takeaways 🪵🐦
- Low Cost, High Profit – Build a Martin birdhouse for about $8 in materials and sell it for $300+.
- Size Matters – Larger birdhouses (24–36 inches) stand out as both decorative and functional pieces.
- Decor + Function – Buyers love items that double as home décor and practical outdoor fixtures.
- Repeat Builds Pay Off – Once you make one, build several—demand is often higher than supply.
- Beginner-Friendly Project – Requires only basic woodworking tools, plywood, and a few simple techniques.
Why Wooden Martin Boxes Are a Goldmine
Plastic birdhouses dominate the market, but they lack character and craftsmanship. A handmade wooden Martin house not only attracts birds but also appeals to homeowners who want something that looks beautiful in their yard or garden.
The builder behind this project notes that past Martin boxes sold for $350 each, proving that buyers will pay premium prices for well-made wooden alternatives.
Step 1: Gather Materials
The materials list is refreshingly short:
- Four fence pickets (around $2 each)
- Pocket hole jig + screws
- Wood glue (exterior grade)
- Brad nails
- Paint or stain (optional)
Total cost: about $8–$10 per box.
Step 2: Cut & Prep the Parts
Start by following a simple cut list (the builder provides full plans for sale on Etsy). Cut the base, walls, and dividers first.
- Painting or Staining: If you’d like a distressed look, begin by painting the pieces black, then add a white topcoat. Once dry, lightly sand or scrape areas to let the black show through. This creates a rustic, weathered finish.
Step 3: Create Roof Shingles
Instead of a plain roof, this project uses DIY wooden shingles for a decorative touch.
- Cut strips of wood at 1½ inches wide (plus one slightly wider at 2⅛ inches for overlap).
- Use your saw’s depth stop to cut shallow grooves (⅛ inch) across the slats, giving them the look of individual shingles.
- Stain or paint the shingles separately before attaching.
Step 4: Build the Walls & Base
- Assemble the base using pocket holes, glue, and screws.
- Cut entrance holes in the front panel using a 1½-inch spade bit, spacing them about 2½ inches apart.
- Attach the side posts and walls with glue and nails, keeping the back panel removable for easy end-of-season cleaning.
Step 5: Add Nesting Box Dividers
Inside, install three dividers at 5-inch intervals. These create separate nesting boxes, which are ideal for Martins.
This design not only supports the birds’ needs but also enhances the functional value of the project.
Step 6: Assemble the Gables & Roof
- Cut gables at 45-degree angles and attach with pocket holes.
- Install a center support board to strengthen the roof.
- Begin attaching shingles, starting with the 2⅛-inch-wide board at the front, then alternating smaller slats for a staggered, layered look.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
- Add decorative post braces for an authentic cottage-style look.
- Leave posts natural for contrast, or distress them to match the siding.
- Seal with an outdoor wood finish for protection.
The Profit Potential
For just a few dollars and a couple of hours of work, this project produces a 24-inch Martin house that’s impressive in size and appearance. Bird lovers and home décor enthusiasts are often willing to pay $300+ for a handmade wooden version—especially since mass-produced plastic alternatives lack the same charm.
And here’s the smart business tip: don’t build just one. Every prototype tends to sell fast, and demand usually outpaces supply. Building several at once maximizes your time and profit.
Woodworking projects like this Martin birdhouse show how simple materials and smart craftsmanship can create items that sell for a premium. The combination of low-cost build, high perceived value, and wide appeal makes this one of the best woodworking side hustles available today.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, this project is affordable, practical, and profitable. For anyone looking to make money with woodworking, Martin boxes are where it’s at.