Holiday Planning & Ideas Easter Easter Crafts Easter Eggs How to Make Silk-Tie Easter Eggs This traditional method of coloring eggs creates intricate designs using silk fabric—with less mess and less waste. By Martha Stewart Editors Martha Stewart Editors An article attributed to "Martha Stewart Editors" indicates when several writers and editors have contributed to an article over the years. These collaborations allow us to provide you with the most accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information available.The Martha Stewart team aims to teach and inspire readers daily with tested-until-perfected recipes, creative DIY projects, and elevated home and entertaining ideas. They are experts in their fields who research, create, and test the best ways to help readers design the life they want. The joy is in the doing. Editorial Guidelines Updated on March 15, 2023 Share Tweet Pin Email Want to create a unique Easter egg design this year? Our easy silk-tie dyeing method transfers the bright colors and patterns found in ties, scarves, and other pure silk fabrics onto eggs. The egg soaks in a hot vinegar bath to allow the fabric's dyes—and consequently, its patterns—to be imprinted onto the eggshell surface. The project is a great way to upcycle old fabrics and supplies. For the white cloth you'll need, you can cut scraps from bed sheets, pillowcases, or old tablecloths. Silk items, such as ties, blouses, and neck scarves, can be found at estate sales, flea markets, or thrift stores. The silk can be reused on multiple eggs, but be sure to check the inside label—the item must be 100 percent silk for this method to work. If you're still unsure, give it a touch test: genuine silk should feel smooth and warm in your hands, look lustrous, and change color in the light. Note: Keep in mind that the hard-boiled eggs will not be edible after you've transferred a silk design. For more ideas, scroll through our entire collection of Easter egg decorating ideas. What You'll Need Materials Eggs Glass or enamel pot Assorted silk ties, blouses, and scarves White cloth Elastics White vinegar Tongs Wiping cloth Vegetable oil (optional) Scissors Instructions Cut silk fabric and white sheets into square scraps, fit to the egg. Wrap the egg in silk, making sure the printed side of the material is facing the egg; secure with an elastic. (Note: Secure it tightly. The tighter you wrap it, the clearer the pattern will be.) Place the silk-wrapped egg on a piece of white cloth; secure tightly with another elastic. Repeat steps one through three for each egg. Place wrapped eggs in an enamel or glass pot. Fill the pot with enough water to cover eggs completely. Add 3 tablespoons of white vinegar. Bring water to a boil, turn the heat down, and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove the eggs from water with tongs and let cool. Unwrap the silk to reveal your egg's design. (Optional: For a shiny finish to your eggs, lightly wipe each one with vegetable oil and a cloth.)