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A collection of earthy, naturally dyed Easter eggs with botanical leaf imprints sitting in a wooden bowl.
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Aesthetic Natural Dyed Easter Eggs

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time12 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 78kcal

Ingredients

  • 12 large white chicken eggs
  • 2 cups shredded red cabbage (for blue/teal tones)
  • 2 tablespoons ground turmeric (for golden tones)
  • 2 cups shredded beets (for pink/terracotta tones)
  • 4 tablespoons white distilled vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
  • Small botanical leaves or flowers
  • Nylon stockings cut into 3-inch squares
  • Small rubber bands

Instructions

  • Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Bring to a rolling boil.
  • Remove from heat immediately, cover with a lid, and let stand for 12 minutes. Transfer eggs to an ice water bath for 10 minutes to stop the cooking process.
  • Prepare natural dyes by simmering each pigment source (cabbage, turmeric, or beets) in 2 cups of water for 20 minutes in separate pots. Strain liquids into glass jars and discard solids.
  • Incorporate 1 tablespoon of white vinegar into each dye jar to act as a mordant for the calcium carbonate shells.
  • For botanical patterns, press a leaf or flower firmly against the dry egg shell. Wrap the egg tightly in a nylon square and secure with a rubber band to create a vacuum seal.
  • Submerge the prepared eggs into the dye baths. Transfer jars to refrigeration and steep for 4 to 12 hours depending on desired color saturation.
  • Remove eggs from dye, carefully snip the nylon, and remove botanical elements. Allow eggs to air dry on a wire rack.
  • Apply a minimal amount of vegetable oil to a soft cloth and buff each egg to enhance the depth of color and provide a subtle luster.