Photography by: Aaron Dyer
Easter is right around the corner, and if you haven’t spruced up your home for the coming of spring, it’s time to hop to it! These miniature papier-mache bowls -– in the shape of bird nests -– are perfect for presenting your Easter goodies. Think: truffle chocolate eggs, Peeps-inspired marshmallow treats, speckled egg-shaped sugar cookies, and the cutest coconut macaron nests we’ve ever imagined.
Get the Coconut-Macaroon Nests Recipe
Not only are these decorative bowls precious, they’re practical — put shredded paper (from your home office, or recycled packing material) to good use. You can even make your own shredded paper with wrapping paper, colored scrapbook paper, or even newspaper. At your Easter celebration, the ideas are endless: create an oversized nest as a whimsical centerpiece or present them individually as a place setting for each guest — filled with candies for casual snacking. Or for the kids, nestle these treats here and there throughout the home for an extra-special touch to your Easter egg hunt.
Learn More About Easter Egg Hunt Games
Materials:
Small balloon
Small jar
Decoupage finish (by Martha Stewart Crafts, $10 for 8 oz., michaels.com)
Paintbrush
Shredded paper (Crinkle-Cut Paper Shred, in Kraft and White, $3 for 3 oz., containerstore.com)
Steps:
1. Blow up balloon until diameter reflects desired nest size (ours are 3 to 5 inches wide). Rest balloon on jar, knotted-end down.
2. In a small dish, mix equal parts découpage finish and water. Brush mixture onto top half of balloon to create a guide for nest.
3. Lay strips of shredded paper onto glue-covered area, covering as much as you can.
4. Dip small handfuls of crumpled shredded paper in glue mixture, and continue adding to create a full nest. Let dry overnight.
5. Pop balloon. Top off inside of nest with additional shredded paper, and fill with small treats.
Erin Furey, host of “DIY Style,” shows how to make these precious paper bowls, step by step. Plus, get her secret trick for keeping the shredded paper from sticking to the surface of your balloon.
SOURCE:http://www.marthastewart.com/1145495/papier-mache-birds-nest-easter