In today’s world, more and more people reuse everyday materials in different ways. The reuse of materials not only help to reduce waste, but they also allow us to create something unique for our homes. Using the material that we usually throw, we’ll create a beautiful home décor. This DIY can give new life to items that would otherwise be thrown away. It adds a personal touch to any space.
When you’re left with an empty cardboard roll from a used cello tape, don’t discard it just yet! These sturdy, round cartons can be repurposed for various creative or practical uses, such as crafting projects, organizing small items, or even as a base for DIY storage solutions. By reusing such materials, you contribute to sustainability while making something functional.
In this blog, we will show you how to make a decorative hanging bird using simple materials. This fun and creative DIY project is a great way to add a natural, rustic look to your home or balcony. And the best part? It’s easy, affordable, and perfect for anyone, no matter your crafting experience.
So, let’s get started!
Materials Needed
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials or alternative material on hand. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- An empty cello tape roll or any similar round carton
- Jute thread
- Walnut shells (cleaned and painted)
- Glue or adhesive
- Colorful beads
- A small white bead or similar item to resemble an egg
- A fine-tipped marker or brush
- Scissors
Let’s Begin Crafting
Now that you have all your materials ready, it’s time to start creating your beautiful hanging bird nest. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, making it easy and enjoyable even if you’re new to DIY projects. Let’s get started and bring your creative vision to life!
Step 1: Find an empty cello tape roll
Take an empty roll from used cello tape. This roll will be the base of your DIY Project. If you don’t have empty cello tape roll, you can take similar round carton from your storeroom.
Step 2: Take a Jute Thread
Next, grab jute thread. Jute thread is a versatile material. It will add a natural and rustic touch to your DIY.
Step 3: Secure the Jute Thread Around the Roll
Carefully stick or tie the jute thread with the surface of the roll. If you are using glue, attach it to the roll properly at the one end of the roll and start wrapping it.
Step 4: Cover the Roll with Jute Thread
Wrap the jute thread around the roll till it is fully covered. Start from one end and keep covering until you reach the same point, ensuring there are no gaps between the thread layers. Secure the thread at the end point. This step gives the roll a clean, rustic look.
Step 5: Take Walnut Shells
Take a clean walnut shell from a nut you have already eaten. Make sure the shells are intact and free from any leftover walnut pieces. These shells will add a unique element to your creation.
Step 6: Put Together the Walnut Shell Pices
Take the broken pieces of the walnut shell and align them carefully to restore its original shape. Use a strong adhesive to stick the edges together, holding them in place until the glue dries. This step will recreate the appearance of a whole walnut.
Step 7: Paint the Walnut Shell
Choose your favourite color to paint the reassembled walnut shell. Apply even coating of the paint. Let the paint dry completely before handling it.
Step 8: Add Details to the Walnut Shell
Once the paint has dried completely, use a fine-tipped marker or brush to draw a bird’s eye and beak on the walnut shell. Place the eye near the top and the beak slightly below it to create a charming bird-like appearance. Let the details dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 9: Make Two Holes in the Roll
With the help of sharp tool like a skewer or a small drill, carefully make two holes on opposite sides of the roll you have covered with the jute thread. Ensure the holes are evenly aligned for balance and are large enough to fit the thread or material you plan to use. These holes will be essential for attaching or hanging your DIY.
Step 10: Attach the Thread and Beads
Cut a length of thread, and tie it through the holes you made in the roll. Secure the thread by tying knots inside the roll to prevent it from slipping out. String colorful beads onto the thread, arranging them in a pleasing pattern. Once you’ve added all your beads, tie a knot at the end of the thread to keep them from falling off.
Step 11: Add a Hanging Knot
Take another piece of thread and pass it through the opposite hole in the roll. Tie a secure knot at the top, forming a loop to hang your DIY creation. Make sure the knot is tight enough to hold the weight of the roll and beads.
Step 12: Attach the Painted Walnuts Inside the Roll
Take the painted walnut shells and carefully arrange them inside the roll. Use strong adhesive to securely stick the walnuts to the inner surface of the roll, ensuring they are evenly spaced or arranged as per your design. Let the glue dry completely before moving the roll.
Step 13: Create a Jute Thread Circle
Cut a piece of jute thread and shape it into a small circle. Secure the ends with glue to hold the circle in place. Add additional circular layers by wrapping the thread around the initial circle, building up like small bowl. Secure each layer with a small amount of glue as you go. Once complete, let the glue dry.
Step 14: Add the Jute Nest and Eggs to the Roll
Take the circular jute nest you created and paste it securely between the painted walnut shells inside the roll. Use strong adhesive to fix it firmly in place, ensuring it aligns well with the bird-like walnut shells. Once the nest is secured, take a small white bead or any item resembling an egg and place it gently in the centre of the nest. Glue the “egg” in place to ensure it stays put, completing the cozy and charming bird-nest scene
Step 15: Hang Your DIY Creation
Now that your DIY project is complete, find your favourite spot to display it. Use the hanging loop you created earlier to securely hang the roll on a wall, door, or any other desired location. Choose a spot where it can be admired, such as near a window, in your living room, or even on your balcony. Enjoy the rustic charm and creativity of your handmade decoration, showcasing your effort and artistic touch!
This DIY bird-themed hanging decoration is not just a craft project—it’s a statement of creativity and sustainability. Using everyday items like jute thread, walnut shells, and a cardboard roll, you’ve created something truly unique and beautiful. Hang it proudly in your home or gift it to someone special, and enjoy the compliments your handmade décor is sure to receive!
Happy crafting!