Project

Ink Dyed Easter Eggs

Mix colors to create a vibrant marbled effect. This lesser-known medium will transform eggs into galaxy-inspired works of art.

Photography: Kara Whitten

Source: Martha Stewart

Introduction

This idea comes from our friend Kara Whitten. "While it may be a bit messy, the vibrant colors produced by the alcohol inks make the process well worth it," she says. Prep your work surface by covering it with plastic wrap, and remember to wear the gloves. (Alcohol-based inks stain easily.) Her extra tip: The alcohol inks will blend together when used, so be sure to choose colors that compliment each other and mix well. "The last thing you want to do is mix green and orange and create a brown-colored egg!"

For more ideas, scroll through our entire collection of Easter Egg Ideas and Projects.

materials

Alcohol-based ink

Rubbing alcohol

White eggs (ceramic or painted wood)

Latex gloves

Plastic wrap

Gold acrylic paint

Clay (optional)

steps

Lay your eggs on a covered work surface. (Tip: If you will be displaying your eggs upright, use a piece of clay to stand them upright for dyeing. Otherwise, they can lay flat.)
For each egg, rub a small amount of rubbing alcohol over entire surface to prime it for ink absorption. Squirt ink onto the surface in any desired pattern. Repeat this step with other coordinating colors. Let eggs dry for a few hours.
Once dried, use a paintbrush to splatter gold paint. Let dry completely before displaying.