The word Pysanky comes from the Ukrainian verb "to write". Originally, they were thought to be imbued with special powers to ward off evil, encourage marriage, ensure a good harvest, and protect the household from disaster. Learn how to make your own for good fortune here!

Video Tutorial

Materials

• Eggs (boiled if desired)
• Food Colouring
• Vinegar
• Containers
• Crayons
• Candle and Matches
• Paper Towel
• Pencil
• Oven

Instructions

Part One: Getting Ready

1. Mix dye according to instructions.
2. Add 1-2 tbsps of vinegar per cup.
3. Arrange colours from lightest to darkest.
4. Choose a design.
5. Using a pencil draw several lines to divide your egg into 4, 6, or 8 sectors depending on your design.

Part Two: Wax Resist

1. Using a crayon, draw on any part of the egg that you want white. Once you are satisfied, place the egg in the lightest dye bath.
   1. Note: if you are not using white then dye your egg in the lightest colour you are using.
2. Wait 2-5 minutes until the egg is the desired colour. Use a spoon to carefully remove your egg from the dye. Pat dry with paper towels, then using the crayon continue drawing the parts of the design for the colour you just dyed. When satisfied, place egg in the next lightest dye bath.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 as needed.

Part Three: Melting Wax

1. Once your design is complete, pat down and dry thoroughly.
2. Hold the egg a few inches over a lit candle to warm the wax, then remove with paper towel, OR
3. Put finished eggs in a muffin tin and place in oven. Bake at 250˚F for 2 to 4 minutes, then remove from oven carefully and use paper towel to remove the wax.

And you're done, congratulations!