Bird seed ornament

3/4 to 1 cup birdseed

1 packet of gelatin (unflavored—I use Knox)

1/4 cup boiling water

Cookie cutters, lightly greased*

Twine and/or ribbon

Parchment or waxed paper

Combine the gelatin and the water in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Keep stirring until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool for one minute. Stir in 3/4 cup birdseed, adding extra as needed until all the liquid is absorbed. (You won't want to add much more than 1 cup, otherwise there won't be enough "glue" to bind the birdseed once dried.)

Place the cookie cutters on a parchment or waxed paper on a baking sheet. (You can make the ornaments right on the counter, but a baking sheet allows for them to be easily moved aside later.) Fill each ornament halfway with the birdseed mixture. Lay a piece of twine down the length of the cookie cutter. Fill the cookie cutter to the top with remaining birdseed mixture, making sure to pack it down firmly. Allow the ornaments to dry for several hours or overnight. Once completely dried, gently press the ornaments out of the cookie cutters. If desired, add a decorative ribbon and hang on a tree branch for the birds to enjoy!

1 cup of water, 4 little packets of gelatin (one whole box) made 10 ornaments.