Backyard Bird Feeder

Vintage Brass Apothecary Scale Seed Balancer

An elegant, functional bird feeder designed to mimic a Victorian-era brass balance scale that tips as birds land to feed.

Vintage Brass Apothecary Scale Seed Balancer

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Vintage Brass Apothecary Scale Seed Balancer — step 1
Step 1

Construct a sturdy, polished walnut base that supports a central brass pillar and a balanced rocking beam. The arm is weighted to remain stable until the weight of a songbird triggers a slight downward tilt.

Vintage Brass Apothecary Scale Seed Balancer — step 2
Step 2

Fashion two shallow, hand-hammered brass weighing pans to serve as the seed collection trays. These trays are mounted to the ends of the brass beam using fine decorative chains to ensure they remain level.

Vintage Brass Apothecary Scale Seed Balancer — step 3
Step 3

Incorporate a gravity-fed glass reservoir disguised as a medicine apothecary bottle above the central pivot point. This allows seeds to trickle into the pans as the birds consume them.

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Vintage Brass Apothecary Scale Seed Balancer — step 4
Step 4

Apply a final patina treatment to the brass components to achieve an aged, antique look. Seal the wood with marine-grade spar varnish to protect the entire assembly from outdoor weather conditions.

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