Types of Paints for Eggshells
- Acrylic paint should not be used on eggs that will be eaten. However, this type of paint can be used on eggs that have been blown so that there is no edible material inside of them. Acrylic paint can be applied to the surface of the egg using either a thin or wide paintbrush. Acrylic paints usually impart a rich color to the surface of the egg.
- Oil can be added to paint or oil based paint can be purchased already mixed. Oil based paint pens are also available at craft stores. These pens make the application of detailed paint decorations a simple process. Using oil based paint results in a glossy paint color, although the color may not be vibrant unless a deeply pigmented dye has been used.
- Different varieties of paint can be sprayed onto eggs. For example, standard household spray paint can be applied to blown eggs. Adding a layer of clear lacquer over the surface of the egg will make the surface more durable and cause it to appear shiny.
- Food coloring based paint is the only paint that is safe for use on eggs that will be eaten. Food coloring is available in dye tablets that must be dissolved in water. The eggs must be soaked in the mixture for several minutes in order to impart the color. A more vibrant color can be achieved using gel based food coloring. Gel based food coloring can be added to water in which the egg can be dipped. Alternatively, gel based food coloring can be painted onto the surface of the egg. Food coloring can also be purchased in spray bottles (available from cake decoration suppliers). Bottles filled with a mixture of food coloring and water can serve as spray paint that is suitable for eggs that will be consumed.