Remember the old Easter egg dye kits that everyone used back in the day? Let’s be honest, it all smelled weird, and everyone’s eggs ended up looked exactly the same. We’re not saying we’ll never again pick up an egg dye kit at the local drugstore, but we’ve got some other ideas for this spring to dye Easter eggs and create a cool art project for the kids and whoever else wants to get their hands a little messy.
Melted crayons
Got some older crayons around the house — you know, the ones with no box to keep them together? Use these discarded nubs to dye Easter eggs. First, carefully slice the crayons into a pile of small shavings and make sure to mix the colors up. Once your eggs are boiled and still toasty warm, roll them around in the shavings. The heat will cause the crayon shards to melt and color the eggs.
MORE: All natural ways to dye Easter eggs
Kool-Aid powder
If you or the kids love dunking the egg in a colored dye but hate the way the traditional kits smell, why not try Kool-Aid drink mix instead? Buy a variety of flavors and colors at the store, then treat them the same way you’d treat Easter egg dye. Fill small bowls with water, empty the packet of drink mix inside, and let your eggs stay in the water for a minute or two until they come out looking colorful and smelling sweet. Drink mix dye is also a great choice if you plan to eat the eggs afterward.
Watercolor paints
Unleash the family’s artistic side with a paintbrush and a watercolor set. Watercolor paints are a great way to dye Easter eggs, and the little ones will love the chance to hold a paintbrush and get creative. Here’s a tip: Try watercolor pencils for even more precision — just make sure to be gentle on the eggs and avoid cracking the shell.
MORE: 15 Easter egg decorating ideas and inspiration
Shades of nature
All-natural families might find it fun to use vegetables to dye Easter eggs. True, your eggs won’t be as bright because you aren’t using artificial products, but for completely organic eggs that are fine to eat after the project, you can’t go wrong with veggie dyes. Try yellow onions, red cabbage or red cranberries. Boil the produce, discard and then let the eggs sit in the hot water afterward until they turn a deep shade of blue, purple, gold or red.