Step 1: Prepare your workspace by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Arrange your cookie cutters on the lined sheet. If using intricate cutters, lightly spray them with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin packets over the 1 cup of cold water. Let it bloom for 5 minutes. Then, add the 1 cup of boiling water and stir continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is clear. Ensure no granules remain.
Step 3: Pour the birdseed mix into the dissolved gelatin mixture. Stir well with a sturdy spoon or your gloved hands until all the seeds are thoroughly coated with the gelatin mixture. Every seed should have a sticky film.
Step 4: Carefully spoon the birdseed mixture into your prepared cookie cutters. Press the mixture down very firmly and evenly with the back of a spoon or your fingers. The tighter you pack it, the sturdier the ornaments will be.
Step 5: Before the mixture sets, use a pencil, chopstick, or drinking straw to create a hole near the top of each ornament for hanging. Immediately thread a 6-8 inch piece of twine or ribbon through the hole and tie the ends together to form a loop.
Step 6: Place the baking sheet with the filled cookie cutters in a cool, dry place for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, to dry. For best results, after an hour or two, carefully remove the ornaments from the cookie cutters and flip them over to dry completely on the other side.
Step 7: Once completely dry and hard, your Homemade Birdseed Ornaments are ready to be hung! Find a sturdy branch on a tree or bush in your yard, away from predators, and hang your creations for your feathered friends to enjoy.