Bluebird Nestbox Build

[@brianholt836]

This has to be the first $750 birdhouse I've ever seen.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Only $750?! It's worth at least $1K IMHO! 😉😁

[@Major-Dan]

I should have guessed that someone who likes likes to create beauty would love the beauty of those birds. Thanks Matt. Great build.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks for making that connection Daniel... they're so beautiful to look at, but have you heard their sweet little 'chortling' song? A salve for the soul IMHO...

[@georgemckenzie2525]

Always nice to see someone pilot as much as I do.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Piloting is such an efficient way to do consistently accurate layout in addition to prevent splitting and stripped out fasteners IMHO... glad to know others are on the same page!

[@georgemckenzie2525]

@@NextLevelCarpentry it was all those staircases I built. whether its a six hundred dollar newel post or volute I have spent three days plotting and shaping. All I want from a fastener is control with no surprises. As it is the things are dowsing rods for boys and latent defects.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@georgemckenzie2525 "Dowsing rods for boys..." LOL!! So true!

[@legendtwo]

Its like watching watching a wood working magician. So much skill. Well done.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Sha-ZAAM! 🤣🤣

[@MichaelAlderete]

This video was _mesmerizing._ Such a departure from your normal, chattier videos, but what a delight to see you working at the full speed your skill and experience let you operate at, instead of slowing down to explain every nuance. I do know the video is sped up, too, but the deftness, the completely assured, economical laying out, marking out, and cutting comes through. Not asking for a change to your normal style! But sprinkling in something like this every once in a while is definitely something I'd appreciate.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Your comment made my day... thank you!!

[@tomtruesdale6901]

Your bird house shows the difference between you as a Master Carpenter and me as a simple wood butcher. Your bird house is a work of art and mine is a shack for birds. LOL Great job Matt. Music was great also.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

I bet the birds won't complain regardless of aesthetics but thanks for the compliment on this little project... it's a fun and rewarding build for its simplicity and elegance IMHO😏

[@sdcofer52]

This is what I like about you Matt, you don't just build a bird box, you build a 🏘!!!! Why not? That is a nest box any bluebird would be proud of. The video format was great as a change up, though I still like to hear your commentary during a build. I learn something each time.

[@rickculpepper709]

This is the kind of video that I like.Watching you do great woodworking is amazing

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks for sayin' Rick... and for paying attention to the video and not giving me grief about the music.🙃

[@Dietcoke03]

15:02 the way you even out the glue, align pieces up on the vise, remove squeeze out by saw dust,, not sure if this is silly to say, it blows my mind,,, i need to watch more of your videos..

[@andrewpinson1268]

Not all woodworking videos are this up close and very clear. Love the fast pace and even the music. Like you say you can always slow the speed down or mute the music if you are opposed to your choices. Just outstanding work also.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Really appreciate the comment about the music Andrew... I'm a lot of things but 'musical' is NOT one of them! I feared a thrashing from trolls/viewers over some unknown faux pas I committed in the soundtrack selection/editing process but, so far, viewers either actually approve or are being very kind, which is a great relief!

[@fredparsons5134]

That was awesome Matt. Cool to see a master carpenter make a bird house. I hope you guys are close enough to enjoy the bluebirds in the new house.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@fredparsons5134 Thanks Fred... the bluebird's return each spring is a highlight here for sure! I can actually see them clearly at their feeder and at their house right out the back window of the NLC shop... pure serendipity IMHO 😎

[@Tripring2000]

Matt, another awesome and fantastic video. You are a master craftsman who can turn a simple bird house build into an elegant entertaining and learning experience. The music was also very nice. Thanks for sharing your talent with us all. I look forward to when you post a new video.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks for joining in the Premiere and commenting here... much appreciated! Glad to hear you look forward to new videos here on the Channel. Spoiler: the next one could be as significantly out-of-character as this one but in an almost entirely different direction... how's THAT for a teaser? 😉😎

[@carvinlambert6899]

Love all of it, but at the Ending, that was Fantastic! Thats the most satisfying part....seeing them take it and move in. 😂

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

It took patience I'm not known for but, our bluebirds "Beau & Bonnie" came through in grand fashion in the end. Couldn't have asked for a more perfect pose for the video's thumnail image...

[@brettmorris6782]

Nicely done. Thank you. I have seen some designs that also include vent holes in the sides and cut corners in the floor for drainage. I love the mounting style and detail.

[@Jack-es9xq]

Best Bluebird Nest Box build on the internet!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks for sayin' Jack! Pls help spread the word by sharing the vid? 😎

[@stefanlippert742]

Your skills are not from this world... Awesome and lovely detailled as always. Greetings from Germany!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks Stephan... much appreciated!

[@paulheitkemper1559]

That final shot was worth it all.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

True dat!! Talk about a 'money shot' right?! All it cost me was an hour or so on and off in late afternoon. Wish I could tell my little feathered friend how much I appreciated his performance... maybe it was his payback for dining on mealworms at our feeder? Priceless no matter though... Best, Matt

[@cristianstoica4544]

I will return to this if only for the playlist. Thank you for reminding me of all the good crafting videos. I certainly enjoy your usual videos just as well if not more

[@normellow]

This bird house is built better than most houses.

[@rwoodard2]

Love the build video but miss the extended/detailed/voiced instructions. This is the next project on my list. Thanks!!!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Have fun with the build when you get to it. FWIW I bought the 1x8x12' rough sawn western cedar board for this project like 3 years ago! Other video projects that are in the works here at NLC are stalled out for a whole host of reasons so that, along with a serendipitous 4 days of rain were the perfect motivation to put that board to use. All that is to say that I think you'll really enjoy the build! Best, Matt

[@dennywerner547]

Thanks, Matt! I love all your videos and this was no exception. Your expertise and attention to detail is what I love to see. I did miss your narration as you always have some great details to elaborate on. The music was nice and your presentation even without words was great! Thanks for the content. It makes my day when I see you have a new video. I am 70 years old and still learn a lot from you!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@dennywerner547 Still learning at 70 years young? You're an inspiration to me and others I'm sure! Thanks for watching and commenting on this one!

[@rafvdp6391]

Great work Matt, it speaks for itself, great looking birdhouses and the birds love it. 🐦 The photos at the end are priceless. And uh I won’t tell anybody but that was clearly Chip that put the pipe in the ground. 😉 All the best

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks for watching and commenting on this one. FWIW I want to blame Chip for cutting the little angle drill guide block 1 1/2" long while holding it with his fingers!😉🤯

[@danielwilliam9018]

Matt, Thank you for sharing your expertise with us. Nice change of pace with the music minus narration. I bought your plans and even if there are no Western Bluebirds in NJ I’ll still have fun building it.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Hey, thanks Daniel! FWIW I'm pretty sure it would only take a minor adjustment in the entry wire spacing to accommodate Eastern Bluebirds but the rest of the build should be almost identical. Keep in mind that's coming from a carpenter, not an ornithologist, but there's plenty of help 'out there' for you I'm sure. Let me know what you think of the plans if you would? It's the most involved set I've made personally and could have oversights/omissions in them... Best, Matt PS it is definitely one of the more 'pure fun' projects I've done in awhile.

[@tonyworkswood]

Love the build, Matt. Bluebird Penthouse, without a doubt. Great to see it being appreciated. Tony

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks for watching and commenting Tony! Did you catch the sequence in the last 30 seconds of the video? Couldn't have asked for a better performance by that special little bird... priceless IMHO.

[@tonyworkswood]

@@NextLevelCarpentry Yes Matt, right on que (appreciated on my comment) lol. I'm really impressed that you also marked the edges/corners for round overing manually with a Sharpie old school before you dismantled the bird box. You can't beat it. Trying to memorise that many edges, corners for rounding lol, it just doesn't work. Nice one. Tony

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@tonyworkswood I spent more than a few hours shooting video and stills for the end of the video and was plagued by camera/lens issues, lighting, positioning, staging etc so that 'right on que' performance is an even bigger deal than it appears... better to be lucky than good though, right?! Doesn't surprise me that you picked up on that Sharpie bit! As you noticed, it really helps when there's 'insides and outsides', 'lefts and rights', etc on a project like this. Funny how memorizing details like this didn't seem to be such an issue back in the day though... 😟

[@tonyworkswood]

@@NextLevelCarpentry Back in the day Matt lol. Been there. Radiused wrong edge. Scrap. Start again. Unpaid work. Got to keep the customer satisfied. Working for nothing lol. Still here though, just. You know the crack Matt. Top man, Cheers Tony

[@glennkramer7370]

Awesome! Well done, clever, fun! And very entertaining! I watch many woodworking videos and this was by far the best! Bravo

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks for sayin' Glenn... producing this video was challenging but the editing process was less drudgery than other videos produced in a different style for a different purpose with a different message.

[@tinkermouse-scottrussell3738]

Enjoyed watching this one all come together, Matt. Thanks for taking the time to share it with us. Play safe from Elliot Lake, Ontario, Canada.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thx for watching and commenting on this one Scott... much appreciated!

[@reginabivona1282]

A true Craftsman!!!!!!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thx!

[@jimlinn5438]

Perfection. Always a pleasure. 👍🏻

[@Ackbarfangirl]

I actually laughed out loud at the video macro title! Great and helpful vid as always

[@BiP00]

Excellent as always!!

[@campion05]

Please, what is the wood you use for the bluebird house? My wife wants a countertop made from it. Thank you for all your hard work for us shade tree carpenters!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

The wood used for the bluebird nest boxes is Western red cedar which is perfect for birdhouses but would be absolutely terrible for countertops so please talk her into something else like Maple or Beech

[@campion05]

@@NextLevelCarpentry Thats what I said to her, that it had to be some kind of Cedar or soft wood. I agree, counter top, not so much. A very special thanks to you for responding. Refreshing where may can't find the time to do so. Respect.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Since I don't do InstaGoogleTwitFace I tend to 'hover' at Next Level Carpentry... helps engage with viewers.

[@Dumpasaurus42]

Matt, you’re a wizard. What kind of wood do you recommend for the Midwest?

[@mattjackson3996]

Western red cedar is a pretty good choice for anywhere but if you have access to Cypress it would be a decent substitute

[@ljgault]

Why is the rod across the entry hole??

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

The rod restricts the entry size and really helps discourage unwanted other birds from entering the house.

[@thomask3017]

Nice! Love IT!

[@somebodypeculiar]

Beautiful work, as always. The video quality was particularly good. I hope you have an assistant for recording and editing. I'd rather your time making these things went into the woodworking. Even though the roof's overhand should keep out the rain, and the door doesn't really seal against the floor, I would have like to see the corners of the floor knocked off a bit for drainage no matter what angle it ends up at. Rain gets driven by the wind, and there is no way to be sure the box is always level. Just a bit of insurance. And one question. What species of wood is that? What other species would you consider?

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks... I only WISH I had an assistant (or anyone, for that matter) to record, edit and produce videos. I could easily provide content for 2~3 videos per week if I did instead of the 1 per month I do now... when everything goes right! The birdhouse is tight but nowhere near water tight so I don't see a need for drain insurance but wouldn't argue with anyone who thought it necessary, especially in wetter/more humid environments. FYI the wood I use is western red cedar... works perfectly. Other outdoor species like redwood, cypress, etc would work well too, depending on budget and availability. Best, Matt

[@rodpotts2666]

That was a cool video!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thx Rod... the 'all music' format was a stretch for this 'ol nail bender so I really appreciate your comment when I half-expected flying rotten tomatoes! 🙃

[@rodpotts2666]

@@NextLevelCarpentry great work.

[@thomascooper6679]

Love the action only format although your instructive chatter is always enjoyable as well. Good project, It's surprising how complicated a simple birdhouse can be. Can you tell us about that 1/2 sheet handled sander you use at about 6:30 ? Is it just a sponge grout float that appears on your Amazon project Tools and Supplies link ? How'd you get the sandpaper to stick ?

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Sorry for the confusion. I use the grout float as a pushblock for flattening boards on the jointer. The sander you ask about is a Gator Sanding block: www.amazon.com/dp/B000WEKOGE?linkCode=spc&tag=onamzdigitalj-20&creativeASIN=B000WEKOGE&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.T7WBYDC8ZCRD&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_d_asin They also sell sheets for it that hold on with 'velcro' type hook and loop backing: www.amazon.com/dp/B0013NPBBG?linkCode=spc&tag=onamzdigitalj-20&creativeASIN=B0013NPBBG&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.T7WBYDC8ZCRD&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_d_asin I have a selection of all grits from #80 to #220 and use 'em all. I have other sanding blocks for different applications but the Gator is my go-to when I need a cushion-backed sanding block.

[@Incandescentiron]

Why the extra table saw cuts on the bottom side of the roof?

[@MikeZMonroe]

I believe to prevent cover from cracking from the elements.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Since the wood gets no water repellent finish, those cuts reduce potential 'energy' in the bare wood and will significantly reduce its tendency to 'cup' from moisture variation during its life outside, totally exposed to the elements.

[@Incandescentiron]

@@NextLevelCarpentry that makes perfect sense, thank you for your reply!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@Incandescentiron For sure! 👍

[@pukajoma2977]

А меня в детстве учили скворечники делать из нестроганных досок. Но здесь все сделано красиво и необычно. Лайк поставил.

[@brianmurray667]

Great job demonstrating the build. Really like the house. Any suggestions on how you would mount this to a tree or building and not lose the intended roof style?

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

I think you could trim off the extended back edge of the roof and use a mounting block strapped to a tree instead of the pole. Not sure if bluebirds like tree-mounted nest boxes though since these and others I see are usually mounted on posts of one sort or another. FWIW our bluebirds are busy setting up house in both next boxes I've built with this design... and they're only 50 yards apart.

[@brianmurray667]

Thanks for your prompt reply. Yes, I understand in the case of bluebirds but I was hoping to adapt the house to a variety of small birds.🙂

[@Incandescentiron]

A bribe doesn't hurt getting them to come either.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Bribe? That's no bribe! That's what the bluebird's agent demanded as compensation for the breathtaking performance checking out the new digs! 😂😎

[@mickwilson127]

If I’d done that, it might have been ready NEXT year😂😂

[@richardkooyman5244]

nicely made but the house should ideally have a series of small vent holes at the highest point of the wall or back to let heat out.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

The "Gilwood Entry Design" with its opening larger than the typical round hole is supposed to help control internal temperature but I appreciate your comment/advice regarding that technicality. I wondered that very thing because the original design I modified has a flat roof which would eliminate that problem. If it's confirmed by others (or maybe you have study results showing how critical that feature is?) I'll definitely drill a few vent holes for the sake of my feathered friends and other viewers who choose to build these. Best, Matt

[@richardkooyman5244]

@@NextLevelCarpentry the Peterson Bluebird House design which is the go to standard has vent hole in both walls at the highest point. I’ve seen newer designs that have 1/2 inch vent holes in both the walls and floor for venting. Just think how hot it gets on a summer day in That confined space.

[@jameskeller746]

Excellent content as always. Do you like the magswitch fence?

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks! Absolutely LOVE the Magswitch fence James... a real game changer IMHO. Very high quality and very useful/functional. So quick and simple to set up I find myself setting up the fence and stop for even just a few holes as shown in this video. Normally I'd just mark and eyeball those holes on a project like this but the Magswitch fence + Llambrich keyless chuck put me in a whole new paradigm. It was recommended to me by a viewer/patron who I trusted, otherwise I don't know if I'd have bought 'just another tool' from the huge selection of amazing new stuff out there these days.

[@plakor6133]

I put up a nest box a week ago, the tree swallows were mobbing it before the conduit pole was even fastened to the fence post. There are nesting birds in it now...

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

"Our" bluebirds valiantly fight off swallows, wrens and what-all to preserve their nestbox home... so far they're victorious which always amazes me...

[@plakor6133]

@@NextLevelCarpentry with all the nesting tree swallows and bluebirds in houses around my place, pesky bugs like mosquitos are practically nonexistent. And your nest box design is super keen.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@plakor6133 Just doesn't get any better than THAT!

[@richardkooyman5244]

@@NextLevelCarpentry actually Swallows also need habit help and Bluebirds are known to be bullies to Swallow, not the other way around. If Swallow’s and BB want the same house you can put up a second house 15ft away and they will not bother each other.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@richardkooyman5244 Interesting information... thanks for sharing this too. There have been skirmishes with some wrens too, even though I've got 2 equally nice wren house nearby... amazing all the drama going on literally right out there in the back yard!

[@willphelps6715]

I love the craftsmanship you put into that birdhouse. I have a question about the door, though. I've never seen a bluebird house door like that... with the bar running across it. Do they enter above the bar or below it? Does it prevent sparrows? Your video shows a bluebird looking into it, but not actually entering.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Someone who's a LOT smarter than me came up with that unusual 'door' design with thorough knowledge of bluebird preferences and behavior. I don't know what it is about it but bluebirds appear to love it as we've had 2 productive nests in it each season. Wrens try to move in but bluebirds chase them out. We don't have a sparrow problem but, relying on the smarts of the designer, believe it's most attractive to bluebirds, maybe more so than more common round hole 'door' designs. BTW They flit in and out below the bar with ease. I think the main idea is that the fact the opening extends up to the underside of the roof makes for better air circulation in hot/humid weather so the interior isn't subject to stifling heat or mold the way other designs are.

[@willphelps6715]

@@NextLevelCarpentryI'll have to give it a try then. Thanks.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@willphelps6715 I think your bluebirds will thank you too! 😎

[@ivokolarik8290]

Good video

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks Ivo... haven't seen you in awhile... hope all's well with you?

[@BrittCHelmsSr]

beautiful but very complicated bluebird house.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

You say 'very complicated'. I say 'next level'. 😉

[@greglawrence742]

good morning,Matt. Few items to note. 1-Made it all the way to the bottome of the comments before the troll hit you with "loud music" comment. ove your No BS reply! 2- for the gentleman inquiring about the Eastern Blue Bird vs. Western Bluebird, i believe thats why the bird box rotates, to account for different loactions. 3- The pole mounting bracket seem to be able to be inverted to account for our friend in the lower hemispheres also. I was shocked there was no End of the End of the End! KLastly- loved the repky to the tiktokifiocation comment. You are corrrect tho, stating YOUR audience LOVES to hear you talk too much, for way too long! That's why we all get up on Sunday to start our day with a fresh video and our cup of Joe! And i'm sure your 325,000 subbers outpace their 1!! Keep up the great work, Matt.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks Greg. I didn't include anything about this but will take measure to keep the birdhouse from rotating so freely once installed so it doesn't whip around in the crazy wind we get around here. A simple screw driven in through one of the mounting blocks will suffice. I hoped the segment showing the pole-driving block, driving the post and then the sequence of stills at the end would stand out to familiar viewers as an 'end of the end of the end' segment but, apparently, that was less obvious to viewers than to me as I edited the video. FWIW I can hardly believe how perfectly the bluebird behaved in giving me the 4-shot sequence as he hopped up and flitted to the entry, and, to top that off, spread his wings for the millisecond it took for the camera's shutter to capture it... a money shot if there ever was one IMHO. Best, Matt

[@jerseycornboy]

Very nice build. Why did you put the bar across the opening cutting it in half. I would have put it a little lover giving the bird easier access.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

I didn't just make that up and put it there randomly. I followed the idea and design of a guy who has spent a good deal of his life studying bluebirds, their behavior and preferences. I can tell you that our bluebirds love the design! You can sure put the rod lower based on your idea if you want but, unless you have more than a passing thought that it would give "the bird easier access", would be surprised if it actually works as intended.

[@jerseycornboy]

@@NextLevelCarpentry Thanks.. What size hole and is that bar centered or is there a measurement from top of arc to where the bar is.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@jerseycornboy You can a search online for free bluebird nestbox plans like this for all the dimensions or follow the link in the video description where I have a detailed set for sale...

[@clydedecker765]

Send that to Oklahoma and see it spin on the post at 80 MPH.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Don't need to send it to Oklahoma to watch it spin like a top... it will do that right here in my backyard! All it takes is a simple thumbscrew through one of the mounting blocks to hold it in place for anyone who needs to. 😎

[@abebeaku8369]

Equal housing oppotrtunity 😊

[@rickcimino5483]

Matt, trying something new eh? Not gonna lie, I miss hearing your narrator voice and your jokes. Love the project. Anyone know what kind of bird that was at the end of the end of the end? I never saw a bird like that!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

I don't have plans to make videos without narration The New Normal... I'll be back to ands, ummms and so's as usual in upcoming videos. It was nice to take a break and just use canned music for this one but only as an outlier. FYI the beautiful bird at the end is a male Western Bluebird... they are always around here but they come at a price because Cardinals which are another favorite of mine are pretty much nonexistent in the same area.

[@rickcimino5483]

@@NextLevelCarpentry we have cardinals on the east coast. Seems like the same one comes back to my house every year. Thanks Matt.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@rickcimino5483 in a perfect world I'd be able to trade you a couple Bluebirds for a couple Cardinals... they're both so beautiful it would be great to share alas it is not to be...

[@waynespringer3320]

Was that Matt or Chip? I couldn't tell. Great project either way.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

That's the upside of having a handy doppelganger, right Wayne? 😉😂

[@waynespringer3320]

@@NextLevelCarpentry 🤣🤣

[@andymok7945]

It is rare for Bluebirds to nest where I live. I sure wish that they did and I would love to have them nest in a nesting box like that.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

They are a true serendipity IMHO. I'll bet that there are other equally wonderful birds where you are that are worth the effort to attract. I know others who have abundant cardinals around and I envy them a bit...

[@hanksnowden5288]

What chuck do you use in your drill press? That thing looks beefy and true - I need to upgrade mine! I've seen a few elusive bluebirds in my area where I live but far more cardinals. Do a cardinal themed birdhouse next haha!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Love those cardinals... send me a cardinal, I'll send you a video 😉😎

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

It's a top of the line Llambrich keyless model that's aMAYzing... definitely beefy and ultra precise... with a price to match. FWIW I think you can get a very good knockoff for $100 or so, about 25% of the price of a Llambrich. No regrets though because you can see how super handy it is to go keyless.

[@hanksnowden5288]

@@NextLevelCarpentry If you had some affiliate link or agreement with them (rare with Llambrich, I know) I would be inclined to purchase through you. I'll see what I can do about the cardinals - thank you for your time!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@hanksnowden5288 I'd have to look back at records to find out where I bought mine but it was around $400+. If you end up with the brand name just search around for the best price from someone who has them in stock. Pay extra attention to the Morse taper specs for your drillpress so you get a chuck that fits/matches. If you do with a knock off from Amazon and want to 'purchase through' me, if you start your shopping search from the Amazon link in this video the small but appreciated sales 'commision' will accrue to Next Level Carpentry. Thanks either way.

[@MikeZMonroe]

I built similar bluebird nesting boxes for my granddaughter. Mounted on a steel t- fence post. Good news …. Intent was to proudly show 6 yr old the beauty of life from bluebirds coming, making it home, lay eggs then……….. Bad news …… predator comes snatches eggs. Researching predators, either a raccoon or a snake? We see folks mount galvanized hardware cloth around entrance and use a pole as you did. Even predators have to eat.

[@stevioclark]

Be nice to have explanations of what is going on

[@WAlter-e6p]

Do you sell the plans??

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Absolutely! The link is at the top of the Video Description but I'm adding it here for convenience if it doesn't show up on your device: next-level-carpentry-swag-shop.creator-spring.com/listing/new-bluebird-nestbox-by-next-l FWIW This is the right time of year to be thinking about attracting bluebirds in Spring/Summer!

[@OmarAhmad-gm1uc]

You are so skilled. Question for you. What are the grooves on the underside if the roof for? Air flow?

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks for the compliment! You're quite observant to notice those grooves. In this case the grooves cut in the underside of the roof serve to weaken the roof board's 'internal strength' and decrease its ability to cup from unequal exposure to moisture. Moisture on one side of a board that's not balanced by equal moisture on the other side causes it to cup... often severely. The grooves can't do anything about moisture differential but they do minimize the power of warping forces and help the birdhouse survive without a roof that cups and ends up cracking.

[@davidarwood6264]

I'd like for someone to tell if these are better than traditional bluebird houses. If so , why ? I can't find any information.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Change your search terms David... there's a TON of bluebird/bluebird house info out there. Here's a good place to start: www.nabluebirdsociety.org/fact-sheets-plans/ I read through a good bit of info and decided that, indeed, this design is 'better' than typical styles and bluebirds in my backyard agree. 😃

[@Cmdr122]

I truly miss your rich dulcet tones 😉

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

You're probably one of the few, Mike, but I appreciate your 'review'!😉

[@qaweeorltuys]

Why does that rod cross the hole? Why not just make the hole smaller?

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

My understanding is that the rod design allows much better ventilation of the nest box than the typical plain round hole. The spacing between the bottom of the hole and that rod at 1 1/4"~1 3/8" has the same effect as a hole of that diameter to keep other species out making it a clever alternative IMHO.

[@EJj-p7z]

Birds are fine with a less labor intensive design and scrap wood, my blue bird box was 0 cost.

[@mattjackson3996]

Good for you.

[@binnsbrian]

Would much more enjoy your commentary. What is in the yellow container with the screws and why?

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Nice to know at least one viewer doesn't think I talk too much! The yellow container holds screw wax which helps screws drive more easily, prevent splitting and, in a small way, help repel moisture on this exterior project. Here's a link to a decent wax in a better container should you be interested: www.amazon.com/dp/B08J7W69J8?linkCode=spc&tag=onamzdigitalj-20&creativeASIN=B08J7W69J8&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.T7WBYDC8ZCRD&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_d_asin

[@jimwilson1817]

Where are the bluebirds?

[@carlgradolph9676]

Great project. People that make negative comments about your "talking too much" probably have short attention spans, owing to their poor education. I find your videos very informative, and your commentaries add depth to the learning. I see a lot of videos from other creators that eschew spoken commentary in favor of adding music, as you have done here, and it always lead me to suspect that they are made by and for members of the "post-literate Adderall generation", who are the leaders of tomorrow..... Let that sink in.

[@TAWei-hi6uv]

Ah yes, another "kids these days" genius. Thanks for contributing.

[@kevink9646]

Question: For your sanding block did you just put stick sand paper on a foam float, or is it a purpose built tool? Thanks and great video (though I do prefer your narration 🙂)

[@lordaleksandre]

They are auto bodywork blocks.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Actually, here's a link to that sanding block Kevin: www.amazon.com/dp/B000WEKOGE?linkCode=spc&tag=onamzdigitalj-20&creativeASIN=B000WEKOGE&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.T7WBYDC8ZCRD&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_d_asin They are one of my favorites for ergonomics, function and performance. I don't like to push things on viewers but really do recommend that particular brand and style...

[@BiP00]

You misspelled bluebird “nestlodge” hehe

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

LOL! Maybe it should be spelled "Nestmahal"?

[@MikeyDonna]

What you have there is a $500.00 bird house !

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Cheap at twice the price, right? 🙃

[@gilbertomanzanilla4333]

Good video like all others, but even better when you talk😅

[@fcrick]

Am I hearing music? What is happening?

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

If the sound on your device is muted and you STILL hear music you should look into it!😉😂

[@fcrick]

@@NextLevelCarpentry You don't hear music all the time? Strange. I know you can't make everyone happy, but as an auditory learner, I'm not sure I'll be able to replicate what I see here because there isn't someone older than me making puns and and talking about the end of the end of the end of the end of the video and congratulating me on making it that far. Choice of music is fine, now I'm just listening to music and not learning about woodworking. I guess the tiktokification has begun :(

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@fcrick "ticktokification has begun"? Not hardly... just a foray into uncharted territory for this 'ol nailbender to prove the point that long videos where many say "you talk too much" actually are preferred by the core demographic for Next Level Carpentry. Gotta go now; I keep hearing "It's a Small, Small World" going around in my head! 🤯😟😂

[@albertwang3667]

It is soooo weird watching your video without your talking.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Should I take that as a compliment? LOL... it felt pretty weird producing such an atypical (for me) video too. One thing I can tell you is that this IS NOT the 'new normal' for Next Level Carpentry!😎

[@lanecobb4150]

Loved the video build Matt but the EDM ruined it. That repetitive dreck made (what’s left of) my hair hurt. I muted the audio when I couldn’t stand it any longer but that made the vid too sterile. I’d have much preferred to just hear the sounds of you working wood with some limited commentary as you went.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

I don't know the secret to success but the secret to failure is trying to please everyone...

[@lanecobb4150]

Truth!

[@jameshodgins1937]

Loved the build but missed your narration and sense of humor.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thanks James... thought I'd check audience reaction if I veered from the normal shtick where viewers often tell me "you talk too much" to see if any of those trolls post a comment like "THIS video was aweSOME because I didn't have to listen to all that yattering" but, of course, I really don't expect that. It was a fun venture in video production but I don't see it as a sign of things to come...

[@jameshodgins1937]

@@NextLevelCarpentry Whatever way you go, I will still watch your videos. Take care and have a good week.

[@don1031]

A different albeit enjoyable presentation of this project. I did miss your witticisms and explanations along the way, however. So I would prefer you not make this a habit.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Not to worry... definitely not the 'new normal' here at Next Level Carpentry. I do wish a viewer who's complained on occasion that I "talk too much" would add a comment saying how it was such a relief to hear only music on this video. 😉🙃

[@juliemac5640]

Agreed! I actually subscribed to this channel BECAUSE of the witticisms. The tying shoelaces video (really!!) has been the best video I have seen in quite some time. I am even thinking of showing it in my writing class to demonstrate process! Thank you for showing that you are a thinking human.

[@bjornek2]

Music :/

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Comment :/

[@bjornek2]

@@NextLevelCarpentry I am sorry, I guess that was a bit vague. I simply mean that I generally don't like music in this kind of videos. I like narrative and explanations and what you normally produce are excellent. I like your videos a lot. If I want to listen to music, and I am very picky, I look for and find the music I like. I know I am being a bit odd about this but that is what I meant. I have a slight hearing problem and often the music are too loud, compare to the speech, meaning that I have to turn down my speakers when there is music, in order to actually hear what they say. That wasn't relevant to your video but the phenomena have affected me on how I regards music that is (in my view) irrelevant to the content. You should of course do as you like but I felt that I should tell you how I regard this, being a big fan of your channel. Again, sorry for being vague.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

​@@bjornek2 thanks for clarifying without being rude and letting me know you're 'a big fan of the channel'. FWIW A few other viewers objected to the music-only feature of this video and, given your 'very picky' taste in music, totally understand your objection to the simple 'canned music' tracks I selected for this video. Given the fact that I like music but am probably 99% tone deaf I'm actually surprised that a similar number of viewers actually commented to say they like the music. Good news is that I don't plan on switching to 'music only' format for videos going forward as this was just a single attempt at a different 'style' that streamlined production during the editing process.

[@bjornek2]

@@NextLevelCarpentry Thank You. I very rarely comment on anything. In this case, in a sense, I guess I was in a bit of "panic mode". I really DO like your channel a lot and I do hope to enjoy it many years to come. I feared a shift from you, towards "musicals". That would eventually lead to me unsubscribing. So, I am very very glad for your response. Thank you and thank you for all your excellent videos.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@bjornek2 I wish I had someone with your taste in music to consult as a guide during video production! My 'music soundtrack' selection process is a quick browse through various free music tracks available through KZbin's Creator Music library where I quickly grab ones that aren't terrible and then haphazardly paste them over the video's soundtrack. 😟🙃

[@farmallhfan]

Looks like someone only want good comments and doesn’t like criticism. Goodby.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

The fact that the slightest bit of pushback to your inane comments causes you to run away just shows you're a coward hiding behind anonymity. Sad.

[@farmallhfan]

Who is resorting to name calling?

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@@farmallhfan I am. Only cowards are too spinless to call a spade a spade... or a coward who posts inane comments a coward.

[@sdcofer52]

What's wrong with you?

[@capnchip]

This is WAY too complicated fo a doggone bird house! I guess it can be done this way with about $54,000 of shop tools!

[@mattjackson3996]

Why don't you spend your time ranting on channels where they use the same 54,000 worth of power tools and shop space to build useless charcuterie boards and cutting boards instead of a project that makes the world a better place?

[@capnchip]

@@mattjackson3996 I feel certain birds are happy to have ANY place to nest. However One fancy house does not serve much of a bluebird population. It is the same situation with humans. Your superior talent surely made ONE bluebird family happy. How about all the others around? Thank goodness for a bunch of ugly plastic newspaper boxes!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Thank you for watching this video and presenting the Communist perspective on Excellence so adroitly! Your comment will certainly encourage your Comerades to hasten their effort in the race to the bottom here in Amerizuela!

[@waymondcarleton610]

birds just want a cavity.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Exactly. It's people who want the aesthetics of a classy and functional nest box which I'm all too happy to provide.

[@geneskowron1440]

talking or not is your choice......but forcing us to listen to that repeating "music" is cruel and inhuman!

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

"Forcing"?! What kind of a puppet are you if you feel forced to watch a random video posted on KZbin? Good grief!

[@ЖеняЖеня-о2ф7т]

СКВОРЕЧНИК ПЛОХАЯ РОБОТА УКРАДЕННО ПОЛЕЗНАЯ ПЛОЩАДЬ В НУТРИ И ПРИСАДА КОТОРУЮ БУДЕТ КРУТИТЬ ВЕТРОМ.😂😂😂

[@jeffp7958]

Hilariously over complicating this.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Sorry this seems over complicated for you Jeff... maybe you should stick to PlaySchool builds so you don't feel so overwhelmed by basic carpentry.

[@jayempress4203]

Your music is 75% too loud, and I didn't enjoy your video because of it. Save your music for yourself at home. Most people have their own taste

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Good grief, Jay... doesn't your device have a volume control?!! And if the video isn't to your taste, why on earth do you spend more than 15 seconds watching it before moving on to something you prefer? Some people...

[@Tripring2000]

I suggest using the volume control. It works wonders with attenuating the amplified sound waves generated by your speakers.

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

@tripring2000... LOL!!

[@sdcofer52]

So, you watch the whole video and your complaint is that you turned the volume up too high? Do you read an entire mystery novel, then complain to the author that it wasn't a biography about Mark Twain? Either you are a troll with way too much time on your hands, or you are denser than ipe.

[@ozzietadziu]

No bird is worth all that work!

[@davidsutton414]

I agree!

[@tonyworkswood]

That's skill. The Blueberd at the end of the video loves it🥰🥰🥰🥰🤩🤩. She's making eggs now. Cheers Tony

[@Major-Dan]

I expect the birds feel much the same about you...

[@Themachinewon]

Way to much for a simple box, then you put it on a medal pole, with all those trees out there,, that's funny

[@NextLevelCarpentry]

Shows what you know... and, more importantly, what you don't know.