Black walnuts can be used in a variety of ways, from food to crafts. Here are some ideas:

1. Eating: Black walnuts have a bold and earthy flavor that can be enjoyed as a snack or used in recipes that call for nuts. They are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. To eat them, you need to crack open the hard shell. Some people use wire cutters or nutcrackers specifically made for black walnut shells. Once removed from their shell, black walnuts can be eaten raw or cooked. They can be used in any recipe that calls for walnuts or any other type of nut, but the flavor of wild foraged black walnuts is much bolder and more earthy.

2. Dyeing: Black walnut hulls can be used to make a natural dye that produces a range of brown shades. To make the dye, you need to crush the hulls and boil them in water. The resulting liquid can be used to dye fabric, yarn, or paper.

3. Crafts: Black walnut shells can be used in a variety of crafts, such as making jewelry, ornaments, or even birdhouses. The shells can be painted, carved, or drilled to create different shapes and designs.

4. Medicinal uses: Black walnut tea is sometimes used for thyroid problems, sore throats, tonsillitis, eczema, and hemorrhoids.

5. Ink: The hulls of black walnuts were traditionally used to make ink. To make the ink, you need to crush the hulls and boil them in water. The resulting liquid can be used as ink for writing or drawing.

6. Woodworking: Black walnut wood is highly valued for its beauty and durability. It is used to make furniture, flooring, and other fine carpentry work.

To use black walnuts, you need to cure them first. Curing takes several weeks. Simply spread them out in a single layer somewhere with plenty of ventilation and let them dry. Store the walnuts in their shell until you’re ready to crack and eat the nuts. The high oil content of walnuts causes them to turn rancid quickly, so if you do decide to crack open the nuts, store the nutmeat in mason jars in the freezer.