Decorating Eggs: Exquisite Designs with Wax and Dye

I am just beginning with pysanky and this book has been a treasure trove! It begins with a brief history of the art, clear explanations and wonderful photos of the tools of the trade, and moves into very easy-to-follow instructions for making decorated eggs. Throughout, the book is filled with wonderful full-color photos of lovely eggs, sparking the imagination with possibilities. The waxing and dying process is documented clearly with photographs and explained fully in detailed step-by-step instructions for making a simple but stunning beginner's egg. Pollak always gives options, not just her preferred method of doing it, explaining the differences between traditional and modern tools, different ways of removing the wax and blowing the egg, etc. There is an entire chapter on playing with color and the effects of one color on top of another color, followed by a chapter on simple two-color designs. She encourages playing with design and color to see what happens! Next are chapters on traditional Ukrainian designs and symbolism, "quilting" on eggshells using patterns inspired by quilts, where to find inspiration for new and original decoration ideas (fabric, cultural images, modern art, etc), and finally, chapters on creating lovely eggshell jewelry and other nontraditional egg designs and uses (like bowls from ostrich eggs!). I would think this book would be as indispensable on the shelf of an experienced egg decorator as I know it is on my beginner's shelf! The only thing to be aware of is that this is NOT a pattern book. It gives clear instructions on how to do pysanky, step-by-step directions for one pattern, shows various design elements used in traditional Ukrainian eggs, and is filled with inspiring photos of finished eggs, but it does not have the patterns for those eggs. I didn't rate it down for this, because it is not designed to be a pattern book, but the buyer should be aware that it doesn't contain patterns. It is, however, filled with education, inspiration, and encouragement!

First let me say that the color photographs throughout this book are simply amazing! I get excited to play around with the techniques just by looking at the pictures and what "could be". I'm a beginner at this but this book has really taken me a long way. There are pictures (in color) demonstrating the different techniques described. Tools are described and shown in pictures so when you go out looking for them you know what it should be. This book is all about using wax and dyes - the Ukranian style eggs. They turn out simply beautiful (ok, so mine look like beginners eggs - I just call them "primitives" :) The instructions in the chapter entitled "Decorating an Egg: From the Beginning" are excellent. Its very step-wise (eg in the sub-section dying the egg....Step 1, step 2 etc)The pictures in this chapter use a simple geometric design with the finished egg shown as well. The following chapters just step it up a notch in each - showing different traditional patterns/designs, "playing with color", and getting really advanced with things like making jewelry and eggs that open. (I'm still hanging out around chapters 1 & 2 but maybe I'll get to the rest of the ideas at some point.) Great book, great pictures that help with learning, and lots of fun.

This is a great choice. The book has great photos, lots of ideas, and guides the beginner step by step. The book will continue to help you after you have mastered the art. It has great ideas and tips. The author addresses the beginner with easy inexpensive solutions, and the advanced egg decorator is presented with many options for advancing their techniques.

I was looking for a book that had the meaning and history of pysanky as well as design and technique. Jane Pollack gives it all! The pictures are beautiful. The technique is well illustrated and easy to follow and makes me believe even I can turn out some nice eggs. The variety of design is from Ukrainian to modern to make-up-you-own. As a quilter I enjoyed the many examples of quilts on eggs. She also includes how to make jewelry. I especially like the explanation of the symbolism of the traditional images. Great book, must own!

I've been purchasing instructional books for 15 years and this one is by far the best I've ever read. The instructions of the step by step process were clear and easy to follow. All my other friends that are interested in making these beautiful eggs are purchasing this book. I would highly recommend it's purchase.