Answer to my ask, what the nest looks like, like the materials used and how they are used in making the nests. How the pillows, blankets, etc. Are using in the making (pillows as a base, blankets used for layering, etc.)
Ok sure thing :) I’m gonna assume you mean nests in general and not a specific character’s nest?
I’m going to structure this like a choose-your-nest kinda thing, based on different kinds of nests and things in them one may want:
Nest materials
Pillows
Head: good for sleeping on, stacks well for making nest walls/base
Body: stacks well for making nest walls/base
Decorative: for the ✨vibes✨
Chunky: fantastic structure for tall nests
Blankets
Sheet: recommend using as the layer closest to your body so your other nesting materials stay clean
Small throw: wrap around shoulders or add a bit of support where needed
Large blanket: adds fluff to the nest! Fold to use as part of the base if you don’t want it to move around, or scrunch it up to make nest tall and fluffy
Fluffy comforter: the crown jewel. Use as structure for a squishy nest, lay it on top of you to feel nice and buried in the nest, or lay it on top of the structure of the nest to smooth it out (good for if you have sensory issues with touch)
Weighted blanket: obviously can be used on top of you, but it can also make really good structure that doesn’t move around a whole lot if folded
Quilt: don’t use a delicate quilt in your nest please! You’ll damage the stitches. A hardy quilt that isn’t an heirloom or something is just fine though
That™️ soft blanket: it’s the softest one. You know what to do
Stuffed animals
Comfort: reserve this one until the nest is finished, then keep it on the pillow so it’s easy to find
Display: lots of people like to line up their proud collection. Best done on a stable spot in the nest
Chunky: can be great for structure or back support
Clothes
Scented: from loved ones
Your own: things like sweatshirts, that make you feel comforted to see
Other items
Look if you’re going to keep items in your nest I can’t stop you but oh god at least just don’t store food in the nest. Consider an easy to reach place for them. My nest is up against my desk, for example
Entertainment: books, games, music, art…
Food: go for non-messy snacks! And do keep some water nearby :)
Self-care: stim toys, ear plugs, chapstick…
Structure: a chair can help prevent things from falling off the nest! Or box in the gap between the bed and desk, etc
Nest shapes
Simple: always a winner, especially good for hot weather, or if there’s another person sleeping there too, or if you don’t have a lot of materials to work with
Structure is a collection of some nice things
Have some pillows for head and maybe around body, or build around body with blankets scrunched up
Scatter some clothes and/or stuffed animals near your head where you can see/smell them
Throw some blankets on top and enjoy!
Circle: good for feeling snuggled by your blankets. If built up tall can ease anxiety through a feeling of being contained
Must have a solid base to stay put, or it will fall get kicked apart
Use stackable pillows or folded blankets for stability, then make it fluffy with chunky pillows and blankets
Aim for the softest things on the inside
Try covering the whole structure with a comforter and then sink in, it’s magical
Messy: this is a free for all, listen to your heart
Often this won’t have an organized structure or base
Most likely type to have items in it
Take your nest materials and hit randomize. It can be cathartic if you’re too high strung
Burrow: a nest with a ceiling, super cozy. Blanket fort style, or in a closet, etc
If not on a mattress, use folded squishy blankets or flat pillows to make a base
Save some pillows to line the walls
Shove blankets into harsh corners for back support
Fairy lights are A+++
If it’s in a closet or something with a flat surface add a little table for items :)
Display: the nest is specifically shaped to show off things you’re proud of like a collection of stuffed animals, etc
This is pretty self explanatory I think
The nest should still be comfy to be in but do whatever suits your collection best
Nest purposes
Easing discomfort
Nests for this will often be soft and shaped to support the body how it needs
Some will be spacious, or will prioritize supporting the arms and legs for things like cramps, etc
Easing loneliness
These nests will have sentimental or scented items featured
Scrunched blankets or body pillows are great for simulating another body next to you
Sleep
A simple nest is often the best for sleep because you’ll move around a lot!
It’s good for your spine to have support for your neck arms and hips so pillows around you could be good :)
Soothing anxiety/mania
Nesting as a comforting behavior means that sometimes you have no plan for your nest and you just do what feels right
Sometimes it won’t feel right and you might get frustrated. Take a deep breath and let go, I’m sure your nest is still great :)
Writing nests
This breakdown of nests should help! It’s based on my experience so it might not be true for everyone, and that’s a good thing! If you want to write nests better, I highly recommend making a nest yourself to see what it’s like. Anyone can do it, regardless of dynamic or if they’re miscecanis, so happy nesting :)
