Wydmusy

Wydmusy (plural of wydmuszka) are hollowed-out eggshells, typically decorated for Easter in Polish and other Central and Eastern European traditions. The process involves carefully removing the contents of a raw egg through small holes pierced in either end, leaving an empty shell that is then meticulously decorated.

The shells themselves are fragile and lightweight, making them suitable for hanging on Easter trees (gaik) or incorporating into Easter baskets. Traditional methods of decoration include painting with dyes (often natural dyes derived from plants and vegetables), applying wax resist techniques (similar to batik), scratching designs into dyed surfaces (drapanki), and adhering decorative elements like beads, seeds, or yarn.

The preparation of wydmusy is a delicate and time-consuming craft, often passed down through generations within families. The resulting decorated eggs hold symbolic meaning, representing new life and resurrection associated with the Easter season. The intricacy and artistry of the decorations often reflect the cultural heritage and regional styles of the maker.