Decorating eggs is a beloved Easter tradition that brings fun and creativity to the season! If you have backyard chickens, it's even more rewarding to use fresh eggs from your own flock. There are two main ways to prepare eggs for decorating: the blow-out technique and the hard-boiling technique. Follow these simple steps to get started!

Blow-Out Technique:

Step 1:

Start by washing and drying your egg to remove any dirt from the coop. Be gentle, as handling the egg too roughly could cause it to crack later.

Step 2:
            Once dry, use a large needle to pierce both ends of the egg, inserting it deep enough to break the yolk. Wiggle the needle in a circular motion or use a thin metal skewer to enlarge the holes slightly. The holes must be big enough to allow the egg contents to pass through but not so large that the shell cracks.

Step 3:
            Hold the egg over a bowl and blow into one of the holes to push the egg white and yolk out. To avoid waste, save the contents for cooking or baking!

Step 4:
            Rinse the hollow shell under cold water to remove any remaining egg residue. Allow it to dry completely before decorating, as moisture can cause dyes and paints to smudge.

Hard-Boiling Technique:

Step 1:
            Refrigerate eggs for at least a week before boiling to make peeling easier later.

Step 2:
            Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water, ensuring the water level is at least one inch above the eggs. Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat, then remove from the stove. Let the eggs sit in the hot water for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on their size.

Step 3:
            Immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool completely before decorating. Hard-boiled eggs should be used within a week for optimal freshness.

Raising backyard chickens is a fulfilling way to enjoy fresh eggs year-round, whether for eating or Easter decorating! Stockdale’s has everything you need to start your poultry-raising journey, from baby chicks to essential supplies. Plus, don’t forget to check out our wide selection of Easter basket goodies to make your holiday extra special. Have a Happy Easter!

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