Did you know that seeds and ‘starts’ of the most precious herbs were brought to America by the earliest settlers? History indicates that old letters, diaries and inventories are full of references to dyes and plants. Imagine having to wear clothing that was off-white or natural all of the time. Dye plants changed this. By dying with plants and plant materials, they could also wear blue, green, rose and yellow. These colors were warm and muted. The dye plants could also be used to create crewel embroidery, hooked rugs or other handcrafts that needed subtle changes in color. Today, these same dye plants can also be used to naturally color eggs for Easter. By using natural plant materials, curious children (and their parents) can create colored eggs that are unique and and still edible!
Common dye plants can grow wild along fields, roadways and even in city yards and parks. These plants produce yellows and browns (even ‘tea dying’). But brighter greens, blues, roses, violets and oranges sometimes require plants not native here. They must be cultivated or purchased. Most make great garden additions as most have attractive blossoms. Dye colors can also come from veggies, roots or trees. Not all natural materials will accept dye, however. (ex. straw, shiny) and not all are safe for consumption. The resulting color will vary and depends on the weather, soil and season the material was grown in, and the growing process itself. It is difficult to dye the exact same color multiple times for these reasons. Many of the dye materials can even be found in the refrigerator or pantry. These edible materials include;
* Yellow/red onions= brown or orange + 1 Tablespoon white vinegar
* Blackberries = lavender
* Used tea (black) leaves = rosy tan
* Blueberries= marbled blue
* Beets (pickled in vinegar)= pinks
* Coffee grounds + 1 Tbl. vinegar=brown
* Turmeric + 1 Tbl. vinegar=yellow
* Parsley- light green
* Dill seed + 2 Tbl. vinegar= brown gold
* Hibiscus tea +1 Tbl. vinegar per cup = dark green
* Chamomile tea= soft yellow
* Red/purple cabbage + 1 Tbl. vinegar = green and blue
Some edible dyeing materials that can be found in the yard include;
* Dandelion roots = reddish
* Black walnut hulls = rich brown
* Tansy leaves= green
* Common Oregano blooms = violet
The dyeing process is rather simple but requires adult supervision. To dye eggs, layer plant material with eggs in large enamel or glass pan (a metal pan can be used but it will affect the dye color) and cover with water. Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes. Remove the eggs and allow to cool. (Tip: A used egg carton works well for cooling the eggs.) Brown eggs will color differently than white. Some dyes will also change the yolk to a different color than the whites.
Different plants and herbs can also be used to imprint the outside of the egg too. Simply wrap the plant material around the egg, cover with clean nylon hose fastened with rubber bands and simmer as usual. Once the eggs have cooled, remove the rubber bands, the hose and plants, and the imprint of the plant will remain on the egg shell! Magic! Look for larger leaves and stems with intricate patterns for the best results. Some imprinting ideas include;
* Thyme * Rosemary * Sage * Chives (wrapped around)
* Fennel * Carrot tops * Dandelion leaves * Tall grasses
After drying, naturally-dyed eggs can be embellished with Easter stickers, decorative paper designs and more. Use your imagination and let your children use theirs. Have FUN! The possibilities are endless!!
For those interested in dyeing fabrics naturally (the way our ancestors did), the dying process is much more complex. Fortunately, many books and internet articles are available to provide guidance and inspiration. For example, dyeing clothing fibers does require the addition of a mordant. A mordant is a fixative substance used to set the color on the fabric. Mordants include alum, chrome, tin, copper and iron. Items dyed with the addition of a mordant are NOT edible! Fortunately, natural basket reeds and eggs can be dyed without mordants and both can be dyed without boiling. Both also accept color well.
I hope that we have inspired you (and your kids or grandchildren) to try dyeing Easter eggs using items that can be found in your backyard and home. With Easter quickly approaching, and all of America practicing social distancing, this week is a perfect time to craft one-of-a-kind egg masterpieces. Masterpieces that the little ones are sure to be proud of!
Happy Easter and blessings for a safe holiday! Thanks for reading along…
The Simple Heart of Life 