News From the Nest, May 12

These sourdough bagels are the perfect combination of chewy crust and soft interior, with that signature tang we all love from sourdough. They’re boiled for shine and bounce, then baked to golden perfection. If you’ve got starter on hand and want to try making homemade bagels, this step-by-step guide will walk you through it, all with ingredients you already have in your kitchen. And if you don’t have a starter on hand, never fear, we’ve got you covered there in a link further down.

• This knit lace baby blanket is delicate, timeless, and perfect for gifting. The pattern uses simple repeats to create an elegant, openwork texture that looks more complicated than it is. Soft, sweet, and lightweight—it’s a blanket that will be cherished for years.

• Add a bit of charm to your bedding with these charming, handmade pillowcases. With crisp corners and a sweet border trim, they’re a satisfying project that comes together in no time—a great way to use pretty fabric and freshen up a bedroom without much fuss.

• If you love gifting your knit projects, these printable care tags are a must. They add a polished, thoughtful touch while helping recipients know how to care for their handmade treasure. Just print, cut, and attach—a little detail makes a big impression.

• These lemon rosemary scones strike the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Fragrant rosemary and bright citrus come together in a tender, buttery crumb that’s just as perfect with your morning coffee as on a brunch table. Lightly glazed or served plain, they never last long.

• Curious about sourdough? This beginner-friendly guide walks you through exactly how to create your own bubbly, active starter from scratch using just flour, water, and a bit of patience. With easy day-by-day instructions and troubleshooting tips, it takes the guesswork out of getting started. And once your starter is happy and active, you’ll be all set to bake some of our favorite sourdough recipes—like tangy sourdough bagels, fluffy discard waffles, tender cinnamon rolls, or chewy homemade pizza dough. It’s a little routine that turns into a whole world of delicious possibilities.

• This butternut squash chili is hearty, healthy, and completely meatless—but you won’t miss a thing. The squash’s sweetness perfectly balances smoky spices and black beans, making it a great year-round one-pot meal. It also freezes beautifully.

• This West African-inspired peanut butter soup is rich, creamy, and comforting with just the right touch of spice. Packed with veggies and protein, it’s as nourishing as it is flavorful. Serve it over rice for a complete and satisfying meal that’s a little different from the usual.

• This strawberry curd is like spring in a jar, bright, creamy, and bursting with berry flavor. Perfect for spreading on scones, spooning over yogurt, or sneaking a taste straight from the fridge, this recipe includes all the tips to get it silky and smooth every time.

• Strawberry puree is one of those simple little kitchen staples that’s endlessly useful. It adds a burst of natural sweetness to drinks, desserts, and sauces, whether fresh or cooked. This post walks you through both methods, so you can whip some up whenever berries are abundant.

• These tartlets are the prettiest little bites of summer—crisp shells filled with luscious strawberry curd and topped with fresh berries. They look fancy but are totally manageable, making them a wonderful option for showers, parties, or just treating yourself.

• These Turk’s Head knot coasters and trivets are functional, stylish, and surprisingly fun to make. Woven from cotton rope, they’re absorbent and washable and add a lovely handmade touch to your kitchen or coffee table. This is a great project for trying something a little different!

• Making your own cloth napkins is such a satisfying project—and a practical one, too. This tutorial walks you through easy hemming and finishing for napkins that can handle daily use or dress up your dinner table. It’s a great way to use fabric you love and reduce waste while you’re at it.

• If you’ve ever wanted a steady supply of fresh flowers for your home, a cutting garden is the answer. This post shares what to plant, when to plant it, and how to keep the blooms coming. Growing your own is a practical, beautiful way to enjoy flowers all season long—without paying florist prices.

• Composting doesn’t have to be complicated—and this post makes it easy to get started, whether you’re using a backyard bin or a countertop container. Learn what to compost, how to balance green and brown materials, and how to avoid common mistakes. It’s one of the best things you can do for your garden and the environment.

• Raised beds make gardening easier, more productive, and better on your back—and this guide helps you choose the best vegetables to plant in them. From tomatoes to leafy greens, these crops thrive in the well-drained, rich soil of a raised bed. It’s all about getting the most from the space you have.

• Prevention is key when it comes to moths, and this guide gives you a full plan to keep them away for good. From cleaning tips to natural deterrents, you’ll learn how to protect your sweaters, yarn, and linens without harsh chemicals.

• This DIY potpourri keeps moths out of your drawers and closets the natural way. Made with dried herbs, citrus peels, and essential oils, it smells lovely and keeps your woolies safe. It’s a beautiful blend of practicality and beauty—and it makes a great gift, too.

• Don’t toss that favorite sweater—this tutorial shows you exactly how to mend moth holes neatly and invisibly. Whether you’re dealing with a teeny hole or something a little larger, you’ll find tips and techniques to bring your knits back to life.