Fill a pot 2/3 of the way with cold water. Pierce the blunt end of each egg to let any air out and to help prevent the shells from cracking. Gently, place eggs into the water in one layer.

Bring water to a boil for about 12 minutes, stirring the eggs once in the first few minutes. Remove the pot from the heat, and place the pot in the sink. Do not pour out any water. Instead, flood the pot with cold water, so as not to shock the egg shells. Allow the eggs to cool, then remove them from the water and let them dry.

Optional: If you want any patterns on your eggs, do that now. Drawing patterns on the shells with a white crayon. Stick on tape cut into shapes, like stickers. Gently wrap rubber bands around the eggs. When you remove the egg from the dye later, the original white of the eggshell will show where the crayon/tape/band was.

Place your dyeing agent in pot with 1/2-quart of water and 1 tablespoon vinegar. Bring to a boil. Simmer until the liquid is dark in color. (Keep in mind that spinach will yield a lighter color.) Drain out the solids, unless you want a more textured look. Repeat for each dyeing agent.

Place eggs in glass containers and pour dye over top. If you’d like texture, spoon any of the remaining solid mixture into each glass. Let the eggs sit in the dye until they achieved the desired color, even overnight. If you are planning to eat the eggs, leave them in the refrigerator.

Remove eggs from dye and blot with a paper towel or cloth. Remove any skins that form, if desired. If you’d like shiny eggs, buff them with olive oil or vegetable oil. The eggs will lose their color after a couple of days.