Create a Birdbath From a Salvaged Sink

Design a unique birdbath out of a vintage, wall-mount sink. This fun DIY project will add charm to your yard, and create a fun hangout for your feathered friends.
Sink Turned Bird Bath

Sink Turned Bird Bath

HGTV shows step by step how to create a decorative bird bath out of an old kitchen sink.

Materials Needed:

  • vintage, wall-mount sink
  • drain plug
  • 3" wood screws
  • PVC pipe
  • hand saw
  • 1 brick
  • 3 cups of small to medium-sized seashells or decorative stones
  • plant or bush that measures approximately 30 inches tall when planted

Select a Straight Tree

Choosing a tree with a fairly straight trunk, measuring at least 12 inches around, will ensure the sink will sit level once mounted. Note: The sink should be mounted approximately 30 inches off the ground. Use a tape measure to make sure there aren't any large knots or bumps located at that height.

Man measuring tree trunk.

Measure for Bird Bath

Choosing a tree with a fairly straight trunk, measuring at least 12 inches around, will ensure the sink will sit level once mounted. Note: The sink should be mounted approximately 30 inches off the ground. Use a tape measure to make sure there aren't any large knots or bumps located at that height.

Place Brick and Measure Drain Pipe

Place a brick on level ground at the base of the tree. Tip: Measure the distance between the back of the sink and the center of the drain pipe hole to determine how far out from the tree the brick should sit. Then, measure the diameter of the drain pipe located on the bottom side of the sink. This measurement will help to determine what size PVC pipe to use. The PVC pipe should be slightly larger around than the drain pipe so that the drain pipe can slide down inside of it.

Cut and Place PVC Pipe

Once the drain pipe diameter measurement is determined, cut a piece of PVC pipe approximately 30 inches long using a hand saw. Place PVC pipe vertically on one end, in the middle of the brick.

Place Sink

Lift sink onto the top of the PVC pipe. Tip: It's helpful to have another person handy for this step. One person can lift the sink into place, while the other guides the drainpipe down into the PVC pipe.

Sink attached to pipe in the ground.

Attach Bird Bath Top to Pipe

Make sure the bird bath top is securely attached to the pipe for proper support and drainage.

Attach Sink to Tree

Secure the sink by driving 3" wood screws through the overflow holes located on the back of the sink. Use screws that have heads larger than the diameter of the overflow holes to ensure that they will hold the sink in firmly in place.

Man drilling sink into tree for su

Drill Bird Bath for Support

Secure the sink by driving 3" wood screws through the overflow holes located on the back of the sink. Use screws that have heads larger than the diameter of the overflow holes to ensure that they will hold the sink in firmly in place.

Plug Drain

Place drain plug over drain hole in the bottom of the sink basin. Tip: Replacement drain plugs are available at most home improvement stores, just make sure to measure the drain hole before heading to the store to determine which size to purchase.

Add Shells and Fill Basin

Add three cups of seashells or decorative stones to the sink basin. Doing so will give the birds a safe place to stand while they bathe. Use a garden hose to fill the sink basin with water. Water will naturally evaporate and may drain out if the drain plug isn't sealed tightly, so make sure to check water level every few days.

Fill Bird Bath Sink with Shells

Fill Bird Bath Sink with Shells

The final step in the repurposed bathroom sink turned bird bath is to add a layer of sea shells at the bottom of the basin. This will give birds something to grip when splashing in the water.

Add a Plant

Create a "living skirt" for the sink by planting a bush that measures approximately 30 inches high directly in front of the brick. It will hide the PVC pipe and look pretty, too.

Sink Turned Bird Bath

Sink Turned Bird Bath

HGTV shows step by step how to create a decorative bird bath out of an old kitchen sink.

Next Up

Upcycle a Plain Kids' Chair With a Decoupaged Map

Put an old map to new use as a colorful addition to plain wooden kids' chairs.

How to Build a Mandala-Style In-Ground Fire Pit

We made an in-ground fire pit, then decorate it with colored river rocks and sand to give it a mandala-inspired look.

How to Build a Covered Sandbox

This weekend, build a covered sandbox for the kids. The roof on this DIY sandbox will keep the play area well-shaded and free of leaves, twigs and rain.

Make a DIY Stock Tank Pool

This stock tank pool how-to will have you lounging in the summer sun in just one weekend — and for a lot less cash than you'd expect.

Solo Stove's Bonfire Is the Perfect Smokeless, Portable Fire Pit for Backyards

If you're in the market for a fire pit, this one checks all the boxes.

How to Play Bocce Ball

Become a bocce ball master and learn the history of the sport with this simple guide.

10 Beautiful Garden Fountains for Every Budget

Create a relaxing getaway in your own backyard with the help of an outdoor fountain.

11 Patio Misters That Will Keep You Cool This Summer

Beat the heat this summer with these top-rated patio misters.

The Best Pergolas and Gazebos for Every Backyard

Create a shady outdoor oasis with these stylish pergolas and gazebos.

12 Best Outdoor Playsets for Toddlers and Kids

Keep little ones busy and active with these backyard playsets for kids of all ages.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.