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
draw and shoot 
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!