Ukrainian-Style Egg Decorating for Christmas

While Ukrainian eggs (pysanky) are traditionally associated with Easter, the art form lends itself well to Christmas as well. Ukrainian eggs, or pysanky, are created using a wax batik method. This class will examine traditional design elements, what the colors symbolize, and some of the stories associated with the eggs. Students will learn to use a kistka (tiny funnel on a stick) to draw with melted wax on egg shells. Once the initial design is drawn, the egg is dyed a light color, then more wax is added, and then dyed again. Once all the dyeing is complete, the wax is melted off to reveal a colorful design.