Make the Platform

• 1). Place the platform base on a work surface. Drill drainage holes in the base near each corner with the 0.25-inch bit.
  
  
• 2). Position one of the 26-inch lengths of wood, standing on its inch-wide side, against one side of the base. The piece will extend one inch past either corner of the base. This forms a one-inch tall edge to the base. Nail into place.
  
  
• 3). Repeat Step 1 with the other 26-inch piece of wood, placing it on the opposite edge.
  
  
• 4). Position a 24-inch length of wood against the base as described in Step 1. It will fit between the two extending ends of the 26-inch edges. Nail into place.
  
  
• 5). Repeat Step 3 with the remaining 24-inch edge. When finished, you will have a 2-foot square platform with a 1-inch edge around the perimeter. This raised edge will keep seed from being scattered by birds and squirrels.
  
  

Attach the Post

• 1). Turn the base over on the work surface and measure the center of the base where the post will be installed. Mark with a pencil.
  
  
• 2). Stabilize the post in a workbench vise or by other means. Place the platform, right side up, on top of the post. The post should be in the center to keep the platform level. Nail the platform on to the post, just to keep it in place for the installation of brackets.
  
  
• 3). Place a bracket at the right angle formed by the post's side and the underside of the platform. Screw the bracket into place on the post and platform.
  
  
• 4). Repeat Step 3 with the three remaining brackets so the platform is secured on all sides of the post.
  
  

Install the Feeder

• 1). Choose a place in your backyard that is open, but has some trees or shrubbery nearby to provide cover for birds.
  
  
• 2). Dig an 8-inch deep hole with the spade at least 3 inches x 3 inches around to accommodate the post.
  
  
• 3). Insert the post into the hole and fill in the dirt around it, pressing down to keep the platform level and stable. The platform will be roughly one foot above the ground.