News from the Nest, June 23

New on the Blog

This crochet strawberry pot is multi-functional! You can use it as a keychain, a purse charm, or a rear window mirror charm. The size can be adjusted to suit your needs; just make the vines shorter with fewer leaves. In any event, it is a quick project that can be started and finished in a day. It relies on the magic ring for several elements, and I’ve attached a video if you need to learn or refresh that simple technique.

From the Knit + Crochet Studio

There’s something so satisfying about knitting up a cozy blanket, especially with a pattern you love. Here are all thirteen of my mostly knit blanket patterns in one place, from simple textures to more intricate stitch designs, you’ll surely find one to suit your fancy. Whether you’re knitting for yourself or someone you love, a blanket is just waiting to be cast on.

Whether working from a pattern or dreaming something up on your needles, knowing how to resize your knit projects opens up so many options. This guide walks you through adjusting stitch and row counts, understanding gauge, and calculating dimensions to get the perfect fit for your project—whether it’s a blanket, towel, or dishcloth. It’s a handy reference for anyone looking to customize their knits without the guesswork.

From the Kitchen

🎆🎇I keep checking and double-checking to ensure I’m seeing it right, but it truly does appear that the Fourth of July is next week! Hmmm…Oh well, I guess it’s time to get ready!

There’s something satisfying about pulling a crisp, garlicky dill pickle from your fridge that you made yourself—and it’s easier than you might think. No canning or special tools are needed; just a few fresh ingredients and a little patience while they chill. I particularly like this recipe as it lets you pickle however many cucumbers you have on hand, from a small to a large batch. Here’s how to make easy refrigerator dill pickles.

So we made it 8 days before “tasting” them, aka eating 1/2 the jar. My husband claimed them to be the best pickles ever.

Lauren

There’s a reason baked beans show up at every summer cookout—they’re hearty and loaded with flavor. This from-scratch version is a big step up from the canned stuff, and well worth the extra time. Molasses, bacon, and a low, slow bake make all the difference. Find out how to make baked beans from scratch.

Making the best hamburgers at home comes down to just a few smart tips—think good meat, a light touch when forming patties, and a hot skillet or grill. This guide walks you through the process with simple steps that turn out juicy, flavorful burgers every time. Nothing beats a juicy burger right off the grill! Check out how to make the best hamburgers at home.

These snickerdoodle cookie bars are everything you love about the classic cookie, but in soft, chewy, no-fuss bar form. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd or just stashing in the kitchen for a sweet treat that doesn’t require scooping dough. The cinnamon-sugar topping gives that nostalgic flavor with way less effort. Here’s the recipe for easy snickerdoodle cookie bars.

If there’s ever a dessert that screams “treat yourself,” it’s this warm skillet brownie sundae. The fudgy center and slightly crisp edges are just begging for a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It’s simple, decadent, and the kind of dessert that turns an ordinary night into something special. You’ll want to bookmark this skillet brownie sundae recipe.

Red, white, and blue sugar cookies are a fun and festive way to celebrate! The dough is easy to work with, and the marbled swirls come out beautifully every time and are fun to make. Grab the recipe for these Red, White, and Blue Sugar Cookies.

These red, white, and blue popsicles look fancy, but they’re easy to layer and make ahead. Fresh fruit and creamy yogurt keep things light, refreshing, and not too sweet—ideal for hot summer afternoons. Kids and adults love them, and they hold up beautifully in the freezer.

From the Craft Studio

If you live near the coast or just love an understated and classic coastal aesthetic, this oyster shell mirror adds a beautifully natural element to your decor. It’s a satisfying project that’s simpler than it looks, with detailed instructions for cleaning and arranging the shells. The end result is a one-of-a-kind piece that’s both rustic and elegant. You can make your own oyster shell mirror with just a few materials, a bushel of oyster shells, and a little patience.

This macrame votive holder adds a touch of cozy charm to any table or shelf, and it’s surprisingly easy to make with just some wire and cord. The open design casts a lovely glow, especially when used with tea lights or fairy lights. It’s a unique twist on standard rope macrame and a great way to whip up something functional and decorative.

In the Home

Decluttering feels good—until you’re standing there knee deep in bags and boxes, wondering what to do with all your “still useful” stuff. This guide rounds up the best places to donate a wide range of items, from clothing and books to tools and linens. It’s practical, thoughtful, and a great resource when you’re trying to part with things responsibly. Here’s where to donate your discards instead of letting them pile up.

When your kitchen is organized, everything just runs smoother—meals come together faster, food gets used before it spoils, and clean-up is easier. This post is packed with smart storage tips, clever product suggestions, and habits that help your kitchen stay functional (and less frustrating). Whether you’re working with a roomy pantry or a compact space, there’s something here to make your life easier. Find your favorite tips in this guide to kitchen organization ideas.