update - I am reposting this because it is time to start saving those onion skins!! I'm going to make a new batch this year so check back to see what I come up with OR sign up for my newsletter (in the column on the right) or follow me on
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Have you ever dyed eggs with onion skins? Not only is it Eco-friendly, and creates the most gorgeous shade of red, its just so science experimenty cool.
After they are colored - I etch them with an old scratch board tool. These three were done - 18 years or so ago! - left uncracked the insides dry out and it sounds like a marble is inside.
My designs are: Owl and the Pussycat, a maiden on horseback stopping a dragon, and a chicken wearing a ribbon that says " which came first" : )
Yesterday I dyed a new batch and hope to etch them tomorrow. Here's how I do it - ( Ive heard red cabbages makes a beautiful blue dye - got to try that!!)
All it takes is:
1/4 cup vinegar,
1 quart h2o
and the SKINS from about 15 yellow onions (yes yellow!! this makes red, trust me)
Put all three in a pot and bring to a boil, then simmer for about 30 min.
After that, strain the skins - some people let the dye cool, but I am way too impatient for that !
In go the eggs and bring to boil again.
Then shut off the heat and let them sit - the longer they sit, the deeper the red.
Easy Peasy.
Now you are ready to etch in a design - be careful not to poke through the shell, use care to scratch away and reveal the white.
Have fun! Show me how you did by posting a photo on instagram and tagging me!!
I'll let you know how the cabbage goes...
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