Easter eggshell painting is a creative and engaging activity for toddlers, allowing them to explore colours and textures while developing fine motor skills.
This fun twist on traditional egg decorating provides endless possibilities for artistic expression.
Materials Needed
- Empty eggshells (washed and dried)
- Washable acrylic paints (various colours)
- Paintbrushes (soft bristles for easy application)
- Egg cartons (for stability while painting)
- Egg cups (optional for holding shells)
- Googly eyes, pom-poms, or stickers (for decoration)
- Clear varnish or hairspray (for preserving the artwork)
- Child-safe glue (for attaching embellishments)
- Apron or smock (to protect clothing)
Step 1: Prepare the Eggshells
- Carefully crack eggs near the top and remove the contents (use for cooking).
- Rinse the shells thoroughly with warm water and let them dry completely.
- Place them in an egg carton or small cups to keep them steady while painting.
Step 2: Set Up the Painting Area
- Cover the workspace with newspaper or a disposable tablecloth.
- Have an apron or smock ready for your toddler to minimise mess.
- Pour small amounts of paint onto a palette or paper plate.
Step 3: Paint the Eggshells
- Let your toddler use a brush to apply broad strokes of paint on the shells.
- Encourage them to experiment with mixing colours or creating patterns.
- Allow the first layer of paint to dry before adding additional details.
Step 4: Decorate the Eggs
- Once the paint is dry, attach googly eyes, pom-poms, or stickers using child-safe glue.
- Create fun designs such as animal faces, abstract patterns, or polka dots.
Step 5: Preserve the Artwork
- To prevent paint from chipping, lightly spray the finished eggs with clear varnish or hairspray.
- Let them dry in the egg carton before handling.
Step 6: Display and Enjoy
- Arrange the painted eggs in a decorative bowl or hang them with ribbons.
- Use them as table decorations for Easter celebrations.
Additional Tips
- Alternative Materials: If using real eggshells is too delicate, consider plastic or wooden eggs.
- Safe Handling: Supervise toddlers closely to avoid broken shells.
- Mess-Free Option: Use sponge brushes for easier control and less dripping.
