atla-032408-psyanky01.jpgThis week’s Curees are working with color. We remember when we got to this week, we were paralyzed. How to begin? We began to look closely at the things around us and how the colors combined to create a mood.

If you’re looking for inspiration for combining rich colors and intricate patterns to create a warm and cozy space, let us introduce you to one of our favorite things to do this time of year: decorate Pysanky (Ukranian Easter Eggs)…

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The deep, clear colors stand out against the white eggshell.

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Using a special tool called a kistka, beeswax is applied to the eggs to preserve the current colour before being dipped into the next, darker, colour bath. Making the eggs takes patience; the wax must be drawn on, the colors layered to form the finished product. Finally, the wax is melted and wiped off to reveal the intricately colored egg.

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In this room, originally published in Living, Etc., colorful patterns, actually evoke a restful, rather than chaotic, mood, by being grounded with white, simple furnishings and minimal accessories.

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We’d love a bunch of these pillows, from Madeline Weinrib Atelier via The Art of Living, combined on a deep colored sofa.

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Here, BabyCakeBoutique, a Curee, combines patterns effectively by keeping a tight rein on the colour scheme.

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Suzani’s, like this one from Domino, evoke the colors and patterns of psyanky eggs; we found this one at Urban Outfitters

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Here, a color chart to get you started.

For more pictures of our pysanky and an explanation of how it’s done, click here.

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[All psyanky photos courtesy of Jules Bianchi Photography]