Chelwood Elementary School

Albuquerque, New Mexico

"Where The Future Begins"

Ukrainian Eggs

The students in the gifted program have been studying Russia. The teacher presented various activities that taught about the folk tails, music, art, and games of Russia. One of the final projects was to create Ukrainian Eggs. These are raw eggs that are carefully decorated with detailed patterns. The eggs are kept in the families for generations and are kept in bowls on the dining room table. They are said to bring good luck and to keep away fire, lightning, and other natural hazards.

Ukrainian eggs are created by carefully putting wax over the areas which are not to be colored. The egg is then placed in dye for several minutes and then removed. Wax is again  put on the egg with a special tool and the egg is dyed again. After several layers of wax and being dyed several colors, the wax is melted off carefully using a candle. Almost like magic, the pattern and colors that were once covered with wax begin to appear. When the eggs are dry, they are coated with a layer of varnish. The inside of the eggs can be blown out or left inside and eventually will turn to powder.

Below are some pictures of the Ukrainian eggs created by the class.

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