How to Make Beautiful Silk Dyed Eggs

When it comes to decorating Easter eggs, intricate patterns are a snap with this no-mess method.

Published on March 24, 2022

silk transfer-print eggs bowl — Photo: Nico Schinco

With colorful scraps of silk and this amazingly easy egg-decorating method, you'll have your annual dyeing wrapped up in no time. Start by coddling—oops—swaddling a hard-cooked egg in a square of patterned pure silk, snipped from a thrift-store tie or scarf (you can also find inexpensive remnants and bundles of sari fabric for a song on Etsy), and tie tightly. Cover it up again, this time in a piece of white cotton cloth, and knot in place with twine. Then, simmer all your eggs in a vinegar bath on the stove top for 20 minutes. As the liquid gently boils, the prints transfer onto each shell, creating a display that's sure to make a lasting impression. Get our step-by-step guide to this elegant egg dyeing project below, but first, a pro tip: Use only pure silk. Test your fabric by rubbing it lightly—it should feel smooth and warm.

What You'll Need

Materials

Hard-cooked eggs
Silk ties or scarves
Fabric scissors
White cotton cloth
Twine
Vinegar

Instructions

Cut a square of silk larger than the egg. Lay the fabric print-side up, and place the egg in the center. Tightly wrap the silk around the egg as snugly as possible, or the final design will look smeared. Secure with twine or a rubber band.
Set the silk-wrapped egg on a remnant of white cloth snipped from an old T-shirt or bedsheet. Swathe and fasten as in step 1. Repeat for each egg.
Place eggs in an enamel or glass pot. Fill with water until covered, add 3 tablespoons white vinegar, and place over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer 20 minutes. Remove eggs, let cool, and unwrap. Wipe the dyed eggs with a cloth moistened with vegetable oil for a nice sheen. (Note: These are not safe to eat.)