Step 1: In a large bowl, dissolve the unflavored gelatin in 1/2 cup boiling water, stirring constantly until completely smooth. Make sure there are no lumps.
Step 2: Stir in the light corn syrup and all-purpose flour (if using) into the gelatin mixture. This creates the sticky binder for your bird seed ornaments recipe.
Step 3: Gradually add the mixed bird seed to the gelatin mixture, stirring well to ensure all the seeds are thoroughly coated. You want a consistency that’s sticky but not overly wet. If it’s too wet, add a little more bird seed.
Step 4: Place parchment paper on a baking sheet. Arrange your cookie cutters on the parchment paper. Firmly press the bird seed mixture into each cookie cutter, making sure to compact it tightly.
Step 5: Using a straw or a pencil, carefully make a hole near the top of each ornament for hanging. Ensure the hole goes all the way through but isn’t too close to the edge.
Step 6: Carefully remove the cookie cutters. If the ornaments are too soft to remove, let them set for 15-20 minutes before gently sliding the cutters off.
Step 7: Allow the bird seed ornaments to dry completely for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight, at room temperature or in a cool, dry place. Flipping them once or twice can help ensure even drying.
Step 8: Once thoroughly dry and firm, thread twine or ribbon through the holes. Your homemade bird seed ornaments are ready to hang outdoors and bring joy to your feathered friends!