Here are some great plant-based dyes. Use them for seasonal egg dying and as inspiration for icing, decorating, or dying other items year-round.

Items Needed:
White eggs, egg carton, stock pan(s), water, white vinegar, slotted spoon and natural materials for dyeing.

Optional: Tape, string, rubber bands, cheese cloth squares, natural beeswax crayons to create designs on eggs, and vegetable oil for an extra sheen.

Directions
Hot Bath Method – Place uncooked eggs in a stainless steel stock pan. Add water 2-3 inches above eggs. (When using bottled juice, fill 2-3 inches above eggs. Do not add water.) Add natural dye ingredients and 1-2 tablespoons vinegar per quart of water. Cover and bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Carefully remove eggs with a slotted spoon and air dry.

Cold Bath Method – Simmer the dye ingredients (water, vinegar and dye matter) for 20-30 minutes or longer, until the dye reaches your desired shade. Allow the liquid to cool and submerge hard-boiled eggs in the dye for at least 30 minutes. Carefully remove eggs with a slotted spoon and air dry.

Colors may vary depending on steeping time and foods used to dye eggs. The longer the eggs stay in the dye, the deeper the color will be.

Download a free natural dye chart!

Adapted from Co+op, Stronger Together. Reprinted by permission from StrongerTogether.coop. Find more recipes and information about your food and where it comes from at strongertogether.coop.

Download a Natural Eye Dyeing Chart