Ukrainian Pysanky Egg-Making

Pysanky are traditional Ukrainian Easter eggs, decorated using a wax-resist (batik) technique.

I learned how to make pysanky when I was 10 years old. Over the last two decades, I have enjoyed teaching workshops for people of all ages, helping others experience the joy and meditative practice of creating pysanky.

At first glance, pysanky can look intimidating. The intricate lines, delicate patterns, and rich colors seem almost too complex to create by hand. But the beauty of this tradition is that anyone can learn it. You don’t need to be an artist to enjoy it. Every egg is unique, and even the simplest designs turn out beautifully. It’s a hobby that slows you down, gives you space to play with color and pattern, and connects you to a centuries-old tradition.

The process itself is surprisingly simple: draw with melted wax, dip in dye, and repeat. Each step reveals a little more of the design, and the final unveiling—when the wax is melted away—is always a surprise.

Whether you’re making your first egg or your hundredth, the joy of pysanky never fades.

The Symbolism of Pysanky

According to Ukrainian folklore, an evil monster is chained deep beneath the earth, and each year it struggles to break free. The only thing keeping it bound is the making of pysanky—every egg created strengthens the chains, while neglecting the tradition weakens them. As long as people continue to make pysanky, the monster will remain imprisoned, and goodness will prevail in the world.

The word pysanka comes from the verb pysaty, meaning “to write,” because the intricate designs are written onto the egg with beeswax rather than painted on.

Each pysanka is more than just decoration—it’s a symbolic expression of hope, faith, and renewal. For centuries, pysanky were created as talismans, believed to protect families, homes, and villages. They were placed in the field for good crops; shared with newlyweds with well wishes for an abundance of children; placed in the barn for the health of the animals; tucked into the coffin for safety in the afterlife. Each combination of designs and colors held a unique meaning for the purpose of the egg.

Ancient designs drew from pre-Christian folklore, with motifs like the sun (representing life and growth), plants (for fertility and abundance), and animals (for strength and protection). With the arrival of Christianity in Ukraine, many of these symbols were reinterpreted to reflect Christian themes of resurrection and eternal life.

The vibrant colors also carry meaning:

White symbolizes purity and light.
Red represents love and sacrifice.
Black conveys remembrance and eternity.
Green stands for new life and spring.
Yellow signifies the sun, warmth, and harvest.

Pysanky are traditionally created during late winter/early spring (now associated with the Lenten season), but can be done at any time of the year.

Today, they remain a cherished cultural art form—both a celebration of heritage and a meditative practice that connects makers to generations past.