Easy Ukrainian Easter Eggs – Pysanky
These easy Ukrainian easter eggs – Pysanky – are created using some simple tools and techniques. This method is for the whole family and even little kids can give it a try.
Equipment
- 1 old spoon
- 1 raw potato to stick the spoon into
- 1 candle
- 1 pencil
- 1 pinning needle with a glass ball top
- few feathers different shapes and sizes
- scissors
Ingredients
- cooked chicken eggs
Onion Peels Dye
- 1 medium pot onion peels
- 2 tsp white vinegar
- water
Instructions
Onion Peel Dye
- Cover onion peel with water. Bring it to a boil and cook for 30 minutes.
- Add vinegar and mix (this is done to deepen the colour).
- Allow the mixture to cool down.
Create Pysanky Design
- Sketch your design: Using a pencil, lightly sketch your design onto the egg. This will serve as a guide when you begin to apply the wax.
- Melt the beeswax in the old spoon over the candle (refer to the picture guide for ideas).
- Dip the writing tools in the melted wax and apply according to the design.
- After applying the wax, place the egg into the dye bath. Once the egg has reached the desired colour, remove it from the dye and let it dry. Experiment with timing and create all sorts of red shades.
- Remove the wax (optional): Once you have completed your design and allowed the egg to dry completely, gently remove the wax by holding the egg close to a lit candle flame or using a blow dryer and a friend to hold the egg for you. This step is optional because the eggs still look beautiful even with the wax on.
- Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to give your Pysanky a shine.
Notes
Pysanky eggs can be stored up to a week inside the refrigerator.