News From the Nest, June 16

From the Knit + Crochet Studio

Whether gifting a handmade blanket or sending a knitted dishcloth to a friend, these free printable knit care tags add a thoughtful and practical finishing touch. They offer simple care instructions, so your handiwork stays looking great long after it’s unwrapped. Print, cut, and attach—the recipient will be so thankful!

If you’re looking for a satisfying project that’s easy enough to knit while watching a movie, this linen stitch knit blanket pattern fits the bill. The pattern creates a blanket that looks fancy, but isn’t fussy! The stitch creates a beautiful woven texture that lies flat, looks elegant, and holds its shape. This blanket was in heavy use in the early spring months on our back porch, and it’s the kind of blanket you’ll want to keep on the back of your couch year-round.

From the Kitchen

This elote dip recipe brings all the bold flavors of Mexican street corn into a warm, creamy dip that’s perfect for gatherings. With roasted corn, zesty lime, and just enough spice, it’s a little smoky, a little tangy, and totally scoopable. Make a double batch—this one goes fast.

Juicy strawberries and a buttery oat topping come together in this strawberry crumble recipe, which is about as no-fuss as desserts get. It’s the perfect way to use up a bounty of berries and comes together with ingredients you likely have on hand. Serve it warm with ice cream for a dessert that tastes like summer.

These fire-roasted tomatoes are a great way to preserve the flavor of summer tomatoes while adding a smoky depth to your meals. Roast them in the oven or on the grill, then freeze or jar them for later use in soups, sauces, and stews. They’re incredibly versatile and well worth the little bit of prep.

Weeknight dinner just got a whole lot easier with these air fryer tacos. Stuff them with whatever you have on hand—beans, leftover chicken, roasted veggies—then let the air fryer do the rest. They come out golden, crispy, and ready in minutes.

Warm, herb-roasted olives are an easy and unexpected addition to any cheese board or snack tray. This roasted olives recipe uses citrus, garlic, and fresh herbs to add flavor and depth. They take less than 20 minutes and are guaranteed to impress.

Use summer’s prolific peppers to make this jalapeño pepper wine jelly , which walks that perfect line between sweet and spicy. Spread it over cream cheese, spoon it onto grilled meats, or tuck it into a charcuterie board. It also makes a unique homemade gift, especially when jalapeños are in season.

From the Arts + Crafts Studio

This DIY desk project proves that a bit of creativity (and a salvaged door) can go a long way. With some sanding, painting, and a few simple tools, an old door becomes a beautiful, functional desk with plenty of character. This is the desk that I am sitting at as I write this! I love the space that a door-sized desk provides. It’s a fun project with significant results and a great way to keep something out of the landfill.

If you’ve ever had water stains under your indoor plant pots, you’ll appreciate these DIY indoor pot feet. They don’t prevent you from spilling water, but they make clean-up easier and ensure that there isn’t residual water on the bottom of the pot. They’re quick to make, easy on the eyes, and help protect your surfaces while giving plants a little lift. Just a few minutes and a couple of supplies, and you’re good to go.

From the Garden

Growing peppers? This pepper companion planting guide can help you get the most from your garden by planting the right neighbors nearby. Learn which plants boost growth and repel pests—and which ones you’re better off keeping at a distance.

Not all bugs are garden villains. In fact, this list of beneficial insects includes a whole host of hardworking helpers like ladybugs and lacewings. Encouraging these natural predators helps your garden thrive without chemicals.

Eggshells might seem like scraps, but they’re full of nutrients your soil loves. This guide to amending your soil with eggshells walks you through how to dry, crush, and add them to your garden beds. It’s a simple, budget-friendly way to nourish your soil while cutting back on kitchen waste. And not for nothing, the birds will appreciate a sprinkle or two as well!

In the House + Home

This summer decluttering checklist is your gentle nudge to clear out what you don’t need. It covers all the usual suspects—expired pantry goods, forgotten cords, cluttered bathroom drawers—and helps you make space for what actually matters. It’s straightforward, doable, and surprisingly satisfying.