Lent - Day 8

How to Blow Eggs

Why: eggs are basic but beautiful shapes that lend themselves to many types of decoration. They are symbols of birth and resurrection. And hollow, decorated shells last indefinitely and are actually sturdy enough to be hunted. (No rotten boiled eggs in the daylilies.) And because it’s FUN.

How:

Carefully prick a hole 1/8-1/4 in diameter in each end of a raw egg.

Insert a toothpick or skewer into one hole and stir the contents of the egg.

Dry opening at one end of egg and blow the contents of the egg into a small bowl. Save for omelet or baking.

Rinse egg and allow to dry.

Then: the fun part—decorating the empty eggshell.

You may dye the shell as you would a boiled egg. Weight the shell with a spoon or something similar so that it remains submerged in the dye solution.

OR Paint it with acrylic paints, draw on it with markers, or even coat it with nail polish. Apply the paint smoothly or drizzle or splatter it on (be sure to protect work surfaces.)

AND/OR apply stickers or decals. Glue on tiny shapes cut from art paper or fabric. Even dots from a hole puncher make a striking design. Layer small squares of colored tissue paper. The entire egg may be covered with lightweight fabric. Fabric trims work well, too. Motifs cut from lace make elegant eggs, as do tiny ribbon and rickrack. Tiny silk flowers, small photos—the list is virtually endless.

What about the hole? You may cover it when you glue on designs. This is best for eggs that will be displayed in a basket or bowl.

OR Thread narrow ribbon or embroidery floss through the egg, leaving a loop 3-4inches long at one end and securing the other end. Thread ribbon or floss through a small button or cardboard disc and knot,

Hang eggs with loops from a tree branch anchored in a flower pot or bowl. Make a mobile with eggs. Suspend them from a chandelier. You get the idea.

OR pile eggs in a bowl or basket for a centerpiece. Stack them in a tall glass vase. Got any egg cups? There you go.

You don’t have to try all these ideas at once. These eggs last for years. After Easter, store them in clean egg cartons in a cool, dry place until next year when you can add to your collection of treasures. By: Ellois J.(Jane) Frantz