We Tried It: Martha’s Silk Tie Easter Eggs

Looking for an easier-than-pie way to craft up an Easter egg more along the lines of the Ukrainian variety? Try these Silk Tie Easter Eggs from Martha. Actually, there’s a special thanks to Jackie Manzolillo, so maybe she’s the brilliant staffer behind the idea.
You’ll need: glass or enamel pot, vinegar, twist ties (the kind you use for garbage bags), and silk ties, blouse, scarf or boxers.




1. Start by venturing into your dad’s closet or your local DI to pick out some old silk ties, boxers, blouses or scarves. (Tip: smaller patterns will show better, and reds come off the brightest.)
2. Cut silk item into a square large enough to cover a large egg completely.
3. Put the now-silk-wrapped egg in a piece of an old white sheet or pillowcase or similar, and twist-tie it securely.
4. Place the egg or eggs in an enamel or glass pot and fill with enough water to cover the eggs entirely. Then add three tablespoons of white vinegar.
5. Bring the water to a boil and then turn down the heat, allowing the eggs to simmer for 20 minutes or longer if you plan on eating them.
6. Remove the eggs from water with tongs and let cool.
7. Remove silk piece from the cooled egg.
8. Polish the egg with a little vegetable oil for extra shine.
Thanks, Jackie! And thanks to Martha, too.






April 3rd, 2007 at 8:30 am
So Pretty!
April 3rd, 2007 at 9:36 am
Wowza! I was skeptical. Not anymore.
April 3rd, 2007 at 11:24 am
I like it!
April 3rd, 2007 at 11:26 am
what a fun idea!!!
April 3rd, 2007 at 2:22 pm
Beautiful, I am off to find some silk! The kids will love it too!
April 6th, 2007 at 8:07 pm
these eggs are fabulous!! I’d love to try them out.
September 4th, 2007 at 2:24 pm
Not Martha’s Idea…I’ve been making these for years. I found an article in the newspaper probably about 20 years ago. Still beautiful and fun to do though!