FAQ
I would like to learn how to make Pysanky. What supplies do I need to get started?
We suggest beginners get started by purchasing a "Basic Kit" and expanding from there. The Basic Kit contains all the supplies you need to make Pysanky in the traditional way:
- the kistka is sturdy and will last indefinitely if used properly
- the dyes can be used from year to year if stored properly to avoid evaporation (simply add a tablespoon of vinegar every couple of months to rejuvenate them)
- there is enough beeswax to make many Pysanky of a basic design
- the cleaning wire is a useful tool that removes unwanted debris from the funnel of the kistka
- all kits include step-by-step instructions, colored diagrams, helpful hints, important information, a description of the history and tradition of Pysanky, symbols and their meanings and sample designs
TIP: if you're making Pysanky with your friends or family, with kids for example, rather than purchase 2 Basic Kits, just buy one, add a kistka for each additional person and easily share all the other things!
I see that the Basic Kit is really affordable. Is there anything else I need?
If you want to expand the Basic Kit, we suggest that you purchase any of the following additional items, depending on your budget (all are optional, of course!)
- kistka / candle holder
- drying board
- books
- extra kistka (start with size fine, then heavy)
- extra dye colors (make sure you have enough jars)
- extra beeswax
What books do you suggest for beginners?
| In addition to the excellent pamphlet included with all the kits we also recommend the following reading for beginners: | |||||||||
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What is the drying board used for?
The drying board is a sturdy wooden board that has stainless steel nails arranged in tripod configurations to hold 15 eggs at a time. It is:
- essential for removing beeswax using the oven method
- provides a safe place for drying your emptied eggs
- protects eggshells while they are draining
- convenient place for resting your eggs while decorating
Do I need to buy new dyes every year?
No, eggshell dyes are aniline, non-edible and come in a powdered form. They are prepared with water and vinegar (all except the orange dye which requires no vinegar!). The vinegar acts as a setting agent and allows the color to adhere to the eggshell. Once prepared, the dyes will last indefinitely. Two enemies are:
- evaporation - therefore, store dyes in air-tight jars
- bacteria from eggs contaminating the dyes - when this happens the dyes become cloudy and show evidence of bacteria growth, but can still be used successfully. Simply strain the dye through cheesecloth, bring to a boil, and add 1 tablespoon white vinegar. From time to time (ie. every couple of weeks) add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to the dyes to rejuvenate their dyeing power
What do your tee-shirts look like?
The construction of our templates is somewhat between heavy paper and light cardboard. There are 16 pysanka templates in a package ranging from 1/4" to 4-7/8". They are designed to divide all sizes of eggs into equal parts of 2, 4, 6 or 8 or for circles.
What are templates and how are they used?
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