Featherstone was a sculptor and designer at Union Products and was tasked with creating new products that would appeal to consumers. He took inspiration from the popularity of tropical themes and flamingos in the 1950s and decided to design a plastic flamingo for the company.

The original flamingo design, which became known as the "Don Featherstone Flamingo," featured a bright pink color, a long neck, and a stylized body shape. The flamingo quickly became a hit and gained popularity as a symbol of kitsch and 1950s nostalgia.

Over the years, the popularity of the pink flamingo lawn ornaments grew, and they became a staple of American suburban yards. The flamingos' quirky and colorful appearance made them a conversation-starter and a whimsical addition to outdoor spaces.

Today, the pink flamingo lawn ornament is considered an iconic symbol of kitsch and a representation of American pop culture. It is often used as a symbol of retro design and nostalgia. The flamingos continue to be manufactured by various companies and are enjoyed by people as a fun and eye-catching addition to their gardens.