How to make egg decorations

Eggs are synonymous with spring in Britain – and they are a great canvas for creating a beautiful seasonal gift for Mother's Day or the Easter holidays.

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You will need

• red onions
• eggs
• old tights
• foliage

Method:

1. Onion dye

Place the red onion skins in the saucepan, and cover with water. Add a few tablespoons of vinegar, and then boil for 10 minutes or so while you move on to
the next step.

2. Tights

Cut a pair of old tights into tubes long enough to wrap the eggs in and set them aside. You need to be able to knot the ends of the tube together to keep each egg safe.

3. Leaves and flowers

Decorate the eggs with leaves and flowers. You can lightly dampen the eggshell with a cloth to help them to stick. Grass blades work well for stripes and clover makes good spots.

4. wrap the eggs

Place each egg in one of your tight tubes to hold the decorations down. Tie the ends securely with a knot or use elastic bands.

5. Into the pan

Carefully lower the eggs into the saucepan of onion-dyed water, ensuring they’re entirely covered, and simmer for a further 30 minutes.

6. Oil the eggs

Leave to cool in the mixture before rinsing and unwrapping the eggs. Rub them with a little olive oil to make your designs shine.

Discover more great arts and crafts ideas here.

Main image Hannah Tribe