To build a precise Warré hive-top feeder, you require specific lumber dimensions for the frame, the internal dam, and the base floor. You will need two pieces of 1" x 4" x 13 1/2" for the long sides, two pieces of 1" x 4" x 11 5/8" for the ends, one piece of 1" x 3" x 12 1/2" for the interior wall, and a plywood floor measuring 10" x 11 7/8" x 3/8".
The Core Takeaway Success in this build relies on the accuracy of your cuts to ensure the feeder is water-tight and fits flush atop the hive. The design utilizes standard 1-inch thick lumber for the structural walls and a specific 3/8-inch plywood section for the floor to contain the syrup.
The Structural Frame Components
The exterior box determines the feeder's stability and how well it integrates with the rest of your Warré hive stack.
The Long Sides
You will need two pieces of lumber measuring 1 inch x 4 inch x 13 1/2 inch.
These pieces form the length of the feeder box. They provide the primary anchor points for the rest of the structure.
The End Pieces
You will need two pieces of lumber measuring 1 inch x 4 inch x 11 5/8 inch.
These boards create the width of the box. Precise cutting here is vital to maintain the correct internal volume for the syrup and the bees.
Internal and Base Components
The functionality of the feeder—allowing bees access without drowning—depends entirely on the interior wall and a solid floor.
The Interior Wall (The Dam)
You require one piece of 1 inch x 3 inch x 12 1/2 inch wood.
This component acts as a baffle or dam inside the feeder. It is shorter than the exterior walls (3 inches tall vs. 4 inches) to allow room for a cover or bee space, while partitioning the syrup area from the access point.
The Feeder Floor
You will need one piece of plywood measuring 10 inch x 11 7/8 inch x 3/8 inch.
This plywood sheet forms the bottom of the tray. It must be thick enough (3/8 inch) to support the weight of the syrup but cut accurately to seal against the frame components.
Critical Assembly Considerations
While the dimensions are straightforward, how you approach the materials and assembly will dictate the longevity of the feeder.
Verify Lumber Thickness
The specifications call for 1-inch thick wood.
Be aware that modern "nominal" 1x4 lumber often measures 3/4-inch actual thickness. If you use thinner lumber, you must adjust your cut lengths, or the internal dimensions will be incorrect, potentially leading to a box that does not fit the hive correctly.
The Importance of Sealing
A hive-top feeder is essentially a liquid container.
Because you are building a vessel to hold syrup, the joints between these dimensioned boards must be perfectly flush. Even the correct dimensions will fail if the wood is warped or the assembly is not glued and sealed properly to prevent leakage into the hive below.
Making the Right Choice for Your Project
When preparing your cut list, keep your ultimate goal of hive health and durability in mind.
- If your primary focus is durability: Ensure you select high-quality, rot-resistant wood (like cedar or cypress) for the 1x4 and 1x3 components to withstand constant moisture.
- If your primary focus is precision: Double-check that your lumber is truly 1 inch thick; if using nominal store-bought lumber, mock up the box first to ensure the 13 1/2 inch sides create the correct square.
Adhering strictly to these dimensions ensures your feeder functions as a reliable, leak-proof resource for your colony.
Summary Table:
| Component | Quantity | Dimensions (Thickness x Width x Length) |
|---|---|---|
| Long Sides | 2 | 1" x 4" x 13 1/2" |
| End Pieces | 2 | 1" x 4" x 11 5/8" |
| Interior Wall (Dam) | 1 | 1" x 3" x 12 1/2" |
| Plywood Floor | 1 | 3/8" x 10" x 11 7/8" |
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