Silk Tie Dye Easter Eggs

Here’s a twist on traditional dyed Easter eggs – tie dye Easter eggs! It’s fairly simple to transfer the patterns from 100% silk ties (any 100% silk material works) onto white eggs. Upscale an old sentimental tie, or have fun thrift shopping for inexpensive silk material. This unique technique is certain to provide a set of silk tie dye Easter eggs that stand out against the rest for your Easter basket or annual egg hunt. Here’s how to do it!

Silk Tie Dye Easter Egg Materials:

• Uncooked white eggs
• 100% silk ties or material
• White cotton fabric (e.g., old undershirt, or bedsheet)
• White string, thread, or rubber bands
• Stockpot
• Water
• White vinegar
• Baking sheet
• Paper towels

Instructions:

1. Cut the 100% silk ties or material into pieces large enough to cover the eggs (e.g., one tie for approximately three eggs).
2. Remove inner fabric or foam from the tie, and discard.
3. Wrap the tie tightly around the egg; be careful not to crack the eggshell.
4. Smooth any wrinkles or creases in the tie as best as you can. The tighter the wrap, the clearer the pattern.
5. Cut a square of white cotton fabric large enough to wrap around the silk-covered egg. ***Note, this step is not necessary, but will ensure that dye doesn’t transfer to the other eggs during the boil.
6. Gently wrap the egg with several layers of string, thread, or rubber bands.
7. Repeat steps 1-6 for remaining eggs.
8. Gently place the wrapped eggs into the stockpot.
9. Cover the top of the eggs with no less than one inch of cold water.
10. Add 6 tablespoons of white vinegar to the stockpot.
11. Bring water to a boil over medium heat.
12. Cook for at least 20 minutes
13. Remove eggs from the water, and place on a paper towel lined baking sheet to cool.
14. After the eggs have cooled, gently cut or remove the string/thread/rubber bands, cotton and silk fabric from each egg. ***Note: the silk fabric should not be reused for other eggs as the design has already been transferred.
15. Gently wipe excess moisture from each egg.
16. Optional: add shine to your eggs by rubbing them with vegetable oil.
17. Store eggs in refrigerator until ready to use.

***Note: some sources recommend using eggs for decorative use only, and some recommend eating the eggs just as any other dyed egg. Do your research, and do what makes you most comfortable here!