Ages ago a friend of mine gave me some metal shavings for the purpose of remaking them into a bird’s nest. These shavings are actually called “bird’s nest shavings” because of the way they look and bunch together. I finally got around to weaving one together. It was trickier than I thought. The little shavings are very delicate and break easily if bent. It took me quite awhile to weave them into a decent shape. I’m sure the birds wouldn’t be impressed with my efforts but it made me appreciate even more what a work of art a true bird’s nest actually is. I think I might give it another go. You can see the real thing here. (The little egg-shaped rock is from my trip to Newfoundland this summer).
Click on images to enlarge.
All images © Karen McRae
The nest is quite beautiful. I can’t imagine how you you put it together.
It was trickier than I expected, a slow build. Thanks Elena.
The nest looks awesome! And I love the incredible amount of texture… I can’t believe you turned these metal shavings into a birds nest… looks like a bird did. Ha so cool!
Thanks Polly!
Very cool Karen, really like the execution. Could you weave to fit around/against shapes like the crook of a branch? It kind of also looks like its as much sculpture as weaving, do you think you could make other shapes with this (e.g., leaves..) Anyhow very neat!
And just a note, liked the photography too. Not easy getting the right light and depth of field…
Thanks Al, I’ve got a plan to take this a step further, will post later!
Karen, I think you did a wonderful job. Perhaps this is indeed a very close interpretation to a bird’s nest – you don’t know as they all seem to be so different. I love that you placed an egg shaped rock into the nest, and I also think your photography is stunning. I am so impressed!
Thanks Marina, I’m working it into another sculpture.
I just saw your post today – that’s an beautiful piece of art and I want it! do you sell your work at all?
Hi Marina,
I saw you note about wanting the sculpture. How kind, I’m flattered! I do sell some of my work, if you are interested send me an email karenmcrae(at)gmail.com
Thanks Karen – I’ll contact you soon!
I love this. Amazing work here, and the photos are great too. Truly wonderful.
Thanks Katie!
Beautiful!Amazing texture!
Thank you Verdica.
I want to crochet a nest with those shavings! You are very cool!
Crochet huh, I’m not sure that would work but it would be cool.
Tricky, tricky, tricky to photograph! You did well, both with the making and the displaying……
Thank you!
These are very lovely Karen – execution and images!