Birds do not insist on … Step 2: Measure and Cut the Pieces. Designing your nestbox:. Three nails for each … Step 3: Angle Cuts. There is no standard, accurate design for a nestbox. You can provide much-needed alternatives by putting up bird nesting boxes. Cut out the six pieces that you will need for your nest box according to the diagram. Read on to discover when and how to clean your bird box and more ways to help nesting birds. The natural nesting sites which many of our beloved birds depend on are disappearing. The following design is ideal for sparrows and small songbirds such as blue tits. How to Make a Nest Box for Birds Step 1: Materials and Tools. Turn the nesting box on to the fixed side and nail the other side into position. Wood is the best material for building a nest box, as long as it is at least 15mm thick. Put a hinge on it. Make a nest box Building a box - the essentials. Box types - hole-fronted or open-fronted.