Inspired by an easy Japanese technique, we've created these delightful decorations to enjoy this Easter and next.

Preparing the Shells
You can empty the contents of a raw egg without damaging the shell. (If you prefer, use wooden eggs, available at crafts stores.) Carefully twist the point of a utility knife against each end of the egg to create two small holes. Insert a long pin through a hole to pierce the yolk. Blow out the insides with an egg blower, available at crafts stores, or with a rubber ear-and-nose syringe. Let drain; rinse. Blow out again, rinse again, and let dry.

Tools and Materials
Blown-out eggs
Pencil
Origami paper
Embroidery scissors
Small paintbrush
Glue sealant, such as Mod Podge

Elegant Eggs How-To
1. Mark egg's length plus 1/4 inch on paper; roll paper around egg's circumference, add 1/8 inch, and mark. Cut out resulting rectangle.

2. Fold rectangle in half lengthwise. Cut 1/4-inch-wide strips on both sides of fold, stopping 1/4 inch from fold.

3. Brush glue sealant down fold on unprinted side; wrap around center of egg. Cut one strip to a point so it just reaches egg's tip.

4. Brush strip with glue; press gently. Repeat on every other strip, then with remaining strips (trim to fit smaller spaces). Repeat with other end of egg.

5. Brush glue over half of egg to seal. Let dry; repeat on other half.