Of course! “Eggshell decor” can refer to two distinct but equally beautiful things:

1. Decorating with eggshells: Using actual eggshells as a craft material or artistic medium.

2. The “eggshell” paint finish: A specific type of paint sheen used on walls, which is a very popular decor choice.

I’ll break down both for you.

1. Decorating With Actual Eggshells

This is a creative, sustainable, and delicate craft that can yield stunning results. It’s often associated with spring and Easter but can be used year-round.

How to Prepare Eggshells:

1. Crack carefully: To make larger pieces for mosaics, tap the top and bottom of a raw egg, peel away a small piece of the shell, and empty the contents. For crushed shells, any cracked shell will do.

2. Clean: Rinse the shell halves and fragments thoroughly in warm, soapy water, making sure to remove the inner membrane (it can cause odor).

3. Dry: Let them air dry completely on a paper towel.

4. Dye (optional): Soak them in a mixture of food coloring, water, and vinegar to create vibrant colors. You can also paint them directly with acrylic paint for more precise colors.

Creative Ideas for Eggshell Decor:

• Mosaic Art: Crush the cleaned, dyed shells into small pieces and use them to create mosaics on picture frames, vases, boxes, or tabletops. Glue them down with a strong craft glue or Mod Podge and seal the final piece with a clear varnish or more Mod Podge.

  • Pro Tip: Use different natural shades (white, brown, speckled) for a neutral, elegant look.

• Candle Holders: Carefully fill the bottom half of a hollowed-out eggshell with wax and a wick to create delicate miniature candles. Alternatively, place a small tea light inside a standing eggshell half.

• Pressed Flower Vessels: Use the empty half-shells as tiny, natural vases for small flowers like violets, forget-me-nots, or clover. Arrange them in an egg carton for a beautiful centerpiece.

• Seed Starters: Fill clean eggshell halves with potting soil and use them to start herbs or flowers. You can plant the entire shell directly into the soil later, as it will decompose and provide nutrients.

• String Lights: Create incredibly delicate and beautiful fairy light covers by carefully placing small LED string lights inside clean, empty eggshells.

• Wreaths and Garlands: String painted eggshells (with the contents blown out) onto thread to make garlands or incorporate them into wreaths.

2. The “Eggshell” Paint Finish

This is the most common interpretation of “eggshell decor” in the world of interior design. It refers to the sheen or gloss level of wall paint.

What is Eggshell Paint?

Eggshell has a soft, low-luster finish that resembles the subtle glow of a chicken’s egg. It sits perfectly between flat/matte (no shine) and satin (a bit more shine).

Why is it so Popular for Interior Walls?

• Aesthetic: It provides a warm, velvety, and sophisticated look that is not too shiny or too flat. It’s excellent for hiding minor surface imperfections better than flat paint.

• Durability: It is significantly more washable and durable than flat paint. You can wipe off smudges, fingerprints, and light stains without damaging the finish, making it ideal for:

  • Living Rooms

  • Dining Rooms

  • Bedrooms

  • Hallways

  • Low-traffic areas

“Eggshell Decor” as a Style:

When people say they have an “eggshell decor” style, they usually mean they have chosen this paint finish for their walls. The color itself can be anything—from pure white to bold jewel tones—but the finish will always be that soft, low-sheen eggshell.

How to use it:

• Walls: Use eggshell finish on the majority of your walls.

• Trim & Ceilings: Pair it with a semi-gloss or satin on trim, doors, and moldings for contrast and easier cleaning. Ceilings are typically painted with flat paint to avoid highlighting imperfections.

Summary:

I hope this clarifies the two wonderful meanings of “eggshell decor”! Is there one in particular you’d like to know more about?