This Easter season, the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America extends our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones.
Ukraine has a rich tapestry of traditions, especially during meaningful holidays like Easter.
One of the most beloved customs is the inclusion of beautifully decorated eggs in Easter baskets — typically of two kinds: pysanky and krashanky.
We have picked three fun ways to make krashanky for the upcoming Easter. We hope you will enjoy them.
1. Onion Skins for Deep Marbled Brown
Color: Rusty brown with natural marbling
How-To:
- Collect the dry outer skins of onions
- Wrap raw eggs in the skins and secure with cheesecloth or pantyhose
- Boil in water with 1 tablespoon vinegar for 30–40 minutes
- Let cool in the pot before unwrapping
Bonus: Place small leaves under the wrapping for beautiful resist patterns!
2. Red Cabbage for Blue Tones
Color: Pale blue to deep indigo
How-To:
- Chop ½ head of red cabbage and boil in 4 cups of water for 30 minutes
- Strain, add 2 tablespoons vinegar
- Soak hard-boiled eggs in the cooled liquid for 4–8 hours or overnight in the fridge
Tip: White eggs turn blue; brown eggs turn a greenish shade
3. Olive-Colored Eggs (Hibiscus + Turmeric)
Color: Muted green to olive
How-To:
- Pour 1 liter of water over 2 tablespoons each of hibiscus (каркаде) and turmeric
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes
- Strain the dye and add 2 tablespoons vinegar
- Let cool to room temperature
- Submerge boiled eggs and soak for 6 hours (refrigeration is fine)
- Remove, let air dry, and optionally rub with oil for shine
