Just a few questions for you experienced DIY'ers!

I have a lovebird and cockatiel, and I was interested in DIY'ing some toys for them (mostly small-ish chew toys, vs. large perches and playstructures). I read the stickies, but still had a few questions:

• What materials do you use? (i.e. ones not listed in the sticky, like lollipop sticks?)
• What items should I watch out for in terms of dangerous chemicals--e.g. if I buy twine or rope, can I assume it'd be safe as is, or should I only look out for natural/organic products?
• Should I try and avoid plastic--e.g. get wooden beads instead of plastic beads, or would either be fine?
• Would it be better to thoroughly wash materials in soap (and rinse it off well), or just wash in hot water, or leave as is?
• Most toys seem to be vividly colored, even DIY projects (e.g. colored popsicle sticks).. is that mostly for the owner's enjoyment, or would they be more interested/entertained by colorful toys? If the latter, what are some safe markers/dyes I could use?
• Is there anything I should watch out for--i.e. potential choking hazards, plastics that tend to be brittle, etc?

Thanks so much!

You can use a lot of different materials. for smaller birds like your popclice sticks would be greats. it depends on what your bird likes. if they like wood, then wood beads or popsicle sticks would be great. if they like shredding then paper, cardboard or balsa wood would be great. or if they like plastic beads use those. it depends. if you have questions on specific things let me know ill answer you.

for twine or rope, usually make sure it is untreated or natural and that it has no oils. then it should be good.

MOST plastic beads are fine. like pony beads from a craft store. cooper loves those. just make sure they dont have like glitter or anything that could come off. and if they are small, be careful, most birds won't swollow them but they can. i trust that cooper wont because i just know my bird. but if they are new or new to beads be careful. wood beads are also good just make sure they are a safe kind of wood(most or pine or birch which are good)


I usually soak things in really hot water with a LITLLE soap. just make sure you rinse it well. i dont think you NEED soap. depends what you want.


some birds like colored things more than other. some LOVE blue but are terrified of the color red. some dont care about color at all. that totally depends on the bird.

like i said. watch out with beads or any other small parts. supervise unless you are totally sure and know your bird.

good luck making your own toys! it can be a lot cheaper and even fun! is you have any other questions just PM me!!!