Guest Blogger - Under The Table and Dreaming - Pottery Barn Bird Nest

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Hello Everyone! I'm Stephanie Lynn from

Under the Table and Dreaming.

I am thrilled to be here today visiting Michelle's blog. {isn't it the best - all these amazing projects in one place ~ I can not get enough of the inspiration here}

At my blog, Under The Table And Dreaming, I create all kinds of things for my home. Come visit me and see some of my other creations!!!

If you see something you like in one of these pictures, come visit my blog and get the tutorial.

Today I'd like to share a little 'nesting' craft with you all. I have had this in my own 'someday craft' file since Pottery Barn put it up on their website for spring.. I love the challenge of remaking a brand name piece ~ it's a little something that keeps me creating.
Materials needed: Yarn, Fabric Stiffener, and a balloon. {It's that simple}

I began by cutting the yarn into 6-8 inch strips. You will need quite a few and it's better to have them pre-cut. I used a cotton worsted weight yarn; however, this project will work with any type.

I blew up the balloon just a bit to create my form then placed it, tie side down, in a bowl to have a nice sturdy working space.

The secret ingredient for this project...Fabric Stiffener. {I used Plaid 'Stiffy' brand} You can find it in the sewing section of your local craft store.

Place 5-6 strands of yarn at a time in a cup and pour enough stiffener in to completely cover. You want the yarn to sit for a few minutes to become totally saturated.
Working with one strand at a time, place the yarn on the balloon overlapping and layering pieces as you go.

Keep going until you have the entire balloon covered. You’ll definitely want to work on a protected space as this gets a little messy.

The hardest part is waiting for these little guys to dry. I waited 48 hours to ensure the yarn was completely hardened. The fun part is deflating the balloon. Turn the balloon over in the bowl and cut a small hole near the tie to slowly release the air.

If there is any residue left on the inside of the 'nest' {as I had above} you can easily cover this up with a light coat of black spray paint.

It's darling with a simple votive {I actually used a flameless candle...I have a three year old, need I say more}
or how about some speckled eggs...

...festive carrot bells...

or simply a little birdie nestled in a bed of greens welcoming spring. {which is finally here today!}
Thanks again Michelle, I'm honored to have the opportunity!

Come see what else I've been up to over at Under the Table & Dreaming

I just finished my craft room workshop and have lots more to share ~ Hope you'll stop by and visit! Have a fabulous first week of spring! Enjoy!

That is an awesome knock-off. Inexpensive, easy and adorable. Did you see those carrots made of bells? Holy smokes!!! That is darling. So many possibilities with a beautiful little nest! Stephanie at Under the Table and Dreaming is definitely talented. That's why I asked her to guest post. Go visit her blog today. I know she would love more viewers and followers. You will be inspired by all she comes up with.

Linking to Finding Fabulous, Romantic Home -Show and Tell Friday, Miss Mustard Seed -Furniture Feature Friday, Lit and Laundry - Finished For Friday, The Inspired Room, Remodelaholics Anonymous, Poppies At Play - Creative Cats , Crafts In Bloom, Kojo Designs - Friday Fun Finds, Fingerprints on the Fridge - Feature Yourself Friday. The Girl Creative - New Friend Friday, That's So Cuegly - Craft Concoction