Sunday, December 18, 2011

A Tree for the Birds




























A beautiful dusting of snow appeared over Friday night. Yesterday was delightfully gray... a perfect studio day. After a foggy evening we awoke to bright blue sky and a sparkling coat of frost over everything. It is never boring here!

This week I worked on the new book and did a little holiday shopping, very little. I like to keep the holiday simple, especially after such a busy year. Handmade holidays are always best. Greg found a nice tree, as always, with room for ornaments to dangle. It looked like the perfect tree for birds to nest in. So I went to work making nests.




























I went through my scraps and cut random squares of brightly colored fabrics. Then I piled them in loose stacks and free-motion quilted a big spiral in the middle of each one. After that I slashed them all around the edges and popped them into the washing machine.





































Next I sent them through the drier twice to fray and tangle the flaps until a grand bouquet of nests emerged.













































































Melissa Peda made us a bunch of sassy birds for our Early Birds booth at Houston Market, so of course, they will warm all the new nests. After the birds are all settled in we will add the next layer of ornaments.
















































It's starting to feel like Christmas. Remember to take some time to stitch this week... and bake and wrap...

14 comments:

bmayer said...

These are SO darn cute, and creative. How do you come up with this stuff? About how big, and how many squares are in your stacks???... I just have to steal this idea. (I'll give you credit!)

gab said...

I agree that this is darling. I too want to know the size of the squares and how many in each nest.

Jane Sassaman said...

The squares are around 6". One bird per nest.

Rachaeldaisy said...

This is such a fun idea, Thank you for sharing how it is done.The nests would be great for Easter too. Melissa's birds are so lovely. In fact I think you have the best dressed tree in blogland.

Melissa P said...

The nests are wonderful. Perfect for those colorful Early Birds.

kateuk said...

Those bright birds really warm up a freezing day!
I agree about home-made presents, the best sort.

Laura Wasilowski said...

Wonderful nests Jane. Makes me want a people size one to snuggle into! May you and your family have a lovely Christmas in our frosty wonderland!

teri said...

Just love these...glad to have found your blog. Merry Christmas!

Mindy said...

What a darling idea! I have a bird themed tree, this would be a great idea for next year!

Linda Teufel said...

I need a bird and nest for my tree! that is fabulous idea!

Pattyskypants said...

Brilliant! xxoo

Salsy said...

Very cute birds and nests! Thanks for sharing.

Carrie P. said...

What a fabulous idea.

Mr Fix It said...

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