Have fun using natural dyes to colour eggs

Celebrate spring with this natural sensory craft. Explore the different options of natural dye plants, the smells and textures, and enjoy your pretty eggs at the end.

Colourful dyed eggs on a check teatowel

This guide is part of our Sense Arts, Sport & Wellbeing programme. This activity can be done at a time that suits you, either in your own space or in an educational setting. 

Who is this for?

This is a crafting activity for people who are deafblind or have complex disabilities and can be enjoyed by anyone.

Why does this make a difference?

This is a creative and sensory activity that helps people learn by engaging with nature and using their senses to connect with their surroundings, exploring touch and different textures while supporting independent choice. 

How to do this activity

What you’ll need

White vinegar, eggs, a sliced up red cabbage, beetroot and more ingredients to make dyed eggs.
  • Eggs (white or pale coloured works best but any will work)
  • Old saucepan (if using food items to dye, it should be ok to use any pan, but if in doubt, use an old one)
  • White vinegar
  • Slotted spoon
  • Dye material (we used red cabbage, onion skins, beetroot and powdered turmeric)
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Water
Image shows hands chopping up a red cabbage into chunks

Step 1

Chop your dye material into smaller pieces.
Image shows red cabbage chunks being added to the pot

Step 2

Add your dye material to the pan.
Image shows the water and vinegar being poured over

Step 3

Cover with water and add 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Gently heat for 15-20 min.
Image shows white egg being placed in pan

Step 4

Add your uncooked eggs. Simmer for another 10 min.
Image shows spoon removing blue egg from pan

Step 5

Carefully remove with the slotted spoon and allow to air dry. Once they are touch dry, you can pop them in the egg carton to fully dry out.

Top tips

  • As you are hard-boiling them and the dye is natural, you can still eat them. Just make sure you don’t leave them anywhere warm for too long!
  • Leave the eggs in the dye longer for darker colours. Simply remove from the heat and when cool, pop the pan in the fridge.