Egg Creatures

Dyeing for a new way to decorate Easter eggs? Here's a recipe for fun that's hard to beat: With basic craft supplies—crepe paper, pipe cleaners, felt, yarn, thread, and glue—kids can make cows, pigs, and lots of other eggs-traordinary creations from plain white eggs. Quail eggs (look for them at specialty grocers) are the right size for smaller animals (paint works better than dye to color their spotted shells). And brown eggs are a natural choice for creatures with dark fur or feathers. We've provided some templates, but who knows just what will hatch from a child's imagination?

Basic Egg Preparation

Blowing: Emptying eggs lets you save your creations. An adult should pierce egg at both ends with a utility knife, widening one hole a bit. Poke a straightened paper clip through wide hole; stir yolk. Place ear syringe in smaller hole; squeeze. Contents will pour out. (Wash hands well.)

Dyeing: It's easy to make dye: Cover work area with paper towels. In a jar, mix 1 teaspoon vinegar, 20 drops food coloring, and 1 cup warm water. Submerge egg (keep it down with a paper cup containing water). Soak 5 minutes for light colors, 10 minutes for darker shades. Remove egg with tongs. A homemade rack of pins and foam board makes for even drying and quick cleanup.

Decorating: Dye or paint should be fully dry before beginning. Affix features with white glue (on crepe paper, use tiny dots of glue); let dry at least 20 minutes. Glue on feet or legs first so egg will stand. For ears and combs, dab glue on edge of felt or crepe paper, affix piece, let dry, then fold up. Add small details like eyes with tempera paint or a marker.