Decorating Easter eggs is a holiday tradition loved by all. And while you can always stick with what you know and use a cheap dye kit to get the job done, you'll end up with an understated, slightly rustic look if you use ingredients that you already have in your kitchen. That's right, just head to your pantry, spice rack or refrigerator to find everything you need to make natural Easter egg dye.

By following the steps below, you'll be able to turn vegetables, fruits and spices into kid-approved, eco-friendly dyes (no food coloring here!). The actual dyeing process is identical to what you've done in the past — boil your eggs, let chill and dip in the homemade dye. The only difference: You can tailor the dye to your desired result by adjusting the time and added materials (think: extra onion skins for a bolder orange hue). Want a subtle wash of color? Let your eggs soak for 30 minutes tops. Looking to make a vibrant statement? Leave 'em in the dye overnight.

Here comes the fun part: Pick your color(s) and start dyeing! Once you're satisfied with your dipped and dyed creations, mix them in with your other Easter decorations, turn them into a statement centerpiece or scatter them throughout your yard as part of your family's Easter egg hunt.

How to Make Natural Easter Egg Dye

  1. Combine 1 qt water and 2 Tbsp white vinegar in a medium pot.
  2. Bring it to a boil and add your dye ingredients for the egg color of your choice (listed below). Lower the heat and let simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. Let cool. Strain the dye to remove any food fragments.
  4. Add the eggs to the strained dye and let soak for at least 30 minutes. When it reaches the desired color, remove the egg with tongs and pat it dry with paper towels.

Natural Easter Egg Dye Color Glossary

Get your desired color by adding these ingredients to the water and vinegar mixture and then following the four steps outlined above (unless otherwise noted).

homemade easter eggs dyed with natural ingredients including onion skins and paprikapinterest
Mike Garten

Red/Dark Pink Eggs

Add 4 cups chopped beets and follow the instructions above.

Orange Eggs

Add 4 cups yellow onion skins and follow the instructions above. For a brighter orange, let the eggs sit in the dye overnight.

Light Orange

Bring 2 cups water to a boil. Add 4 Tbsp paprika and white vinegar, and mix until combined. Pour the mixture into a jar and let cool to room temperature. Add an egg and soak until you are happy with the color. Remove with a slotted spoon and rinse with cool water. Let dry.

Yellow

Add 3 Tbsp turmeric and follow the instructions above.

Light Blue

Add 3 cups chopped red or purple cabbage and follow the instructions below. For a brighter blue, let the eggs sit in the dye overnight.

Dark Blue

Add 4 cups blueberries and follow the instructions above.

Deep Red

Add skins from 6 red onions. Add in 2 cups of water and 3 Tbsp of white vinegar to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Let the mixture cool to room temperature and strain the liquid into your jars. Add an egg and let soak until you are happy with the color. Remove with a slotted spoon and rinse with cool water. Let dry.

Green

Add spinach leaves to a saucepan and pour in 2 cups cold water and 4 Tbsp white vinegar. Bring it to a bowl and follow the steps listed above.

Purple

Pour about a cup of red wine into a jar. Add an egg and let soak until you are happy with the color. Remove with a slotted spoon and rinse with cool water. Let dry.

Burnt Orange

Boil water in a tea kettle. Pour water into a jar with 3 black tea bags and let steep for 30 minutes. Let the water cool at room temperature. Add an egg and let soak until you are happy with the color. Remove with a slotted spoon and rinse with cool water. Let dry.