Chances are your kids beg for flashy, store-bought Easter egg dyeing and decorating kits. As far as they're concerned, the more glitter and stickers, the better, right?! This year, try your hand at a new way of dyeing Easter eggs with an all-natural, chemical-free approach. The good news is, you likely already have all the ingredients you need in your pantry or refrigerator (think veggies, spices, and berries in a variety of colors) to make homemade dye. Once your kids witness the magic of turning food into dye, they'll be hooked and you'll be adding this to your list of favorite family Easter traditions.

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Not only will you save some money by forgoing the pricey store-bought kits and making your own dye, but you'll fall in love with the look of naturally dyed eggs. Gather them in a basket or bowl for a rustic Easter brunch centerpiece—your Easter table decorations will never look better!

Natural Egg Dye Essentials
Plastic Gloves
Brandon-super Plastic Gloves
$4 at Amazon
Ceramic Egg Tray
AbbyCindy Ceramic Egg Tray
Credit: Amazon

You'll also need white vinegar and salt.

How to Naturally Dye Easter Eggs

Each dye color requires the same process—just substitute the final ingredient to change the color.

Bring 1 quart of water, 1 tablespoon of salt, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of the respective fruit, vegetable, or spice (to create the color) to a boil.

Let simmer for 30 minutes, and then remove pot from burner. Be sure to strain the dye, and let sit until it reaches room temperature before dipping your eggs.

Dip hard-boiled eggs one at a time to get even coverage for at least five minutes. The longer they sit in the dye, the more saturated the color will be.

Natural Egg Dye Decorating Ideas
natural egg dye colors
Solids
Acharaporn Kamornboonyarush / EyeEm//Getty Images
natural egg dye pastel
Stripes
Enn Li  Photography//Getty Images
natural egg dye yellow
Shapes
Nongnuch Leelaphasuk / EyeEm//Getty Images
natural egg dye carton
Dots
Enn Li  Photography//Getty Images
  • For dark blue: Use blueberries.
  • For light blue: Use red cabbage.
  • For beige: Use coffee.
  • For orange: Use onions.
  • For yellow: Use saffron or carrot turmeric.
  • For green: Use parsley or spinach.
  • For purple: Use red wine.
  • For pink: Use beets.

Save the chart below as a handy egg color guide!

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Madison Alcedo
Assistant Editor

Madison Alcedo was the Assistant Editor at WomansDay.com and Redbookmag.com.