#23. Making Pysanky Jewelry Two Ways - Melanie Ferguson - Thursday July 23rd - 10:00am to 12:00pm

Workshop Summary:

Discover the art of transforming broken pysanka shells into stunning jewelry in this creative, hands-on workshop with Melanie Ferguson. This expanded class covers two essential jewelry-making techniques—UV resin and epoxy clay—giving you the skills and confidence to design your own unique pieces.

Melanie will guide you through the basics of both methods, starting with how to select the perfect bezel settings for your project and prepare your pysanka shells for use. You’ll learn step-by-step how to mix and apply two-part epoxy clay, embed your broken pysanky fragments, and add embellishments for extra flair. The workshop also covers the essentials of working with UV resin, including safe curing with UV lamps and tips for a professional finish.

Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the fundamentals, an intermediate looking to refine your skills, or an experienced artist seeking new ideas, this class offers something for everyone. You’ll leave with at least a pendant and a channel bead—plus inspiration for future projects using these versatile techniques.

This is a fantastic opportunity to up-cycle broken pysanka shells, experiment with new materials, and create wearable art that celebrates the beauty of Ukrainian tradition.

What's Provided:

Each participant will be provided with an array of resources including:

  • All jewelry-making supplies: UV resin, UV lamps, epoxy clay, bezel settings, and embellishments
  • Step-by-step instruction and hands-on support from Melanie
  • Ideas and inspiration for additional projects

What to Bring:

Students are requested to bring:

  • Vinyl or nitrile gloves
  • Your own pysanka shells (broken or whole, to use in your jewelry creations)

Maximum Number of Students: 20

Workshop Fee: $40 CAD per student + $5 CAD material fee
Please bring $45 CAD in cash, placed in an envelope with your name and the instructor’s name written on it, to the start of class. 

 

 

About Melanie Ferguson:

Melanie learned all about her Ukrainian heritage beginning at a very young age, from her mother and grandparents, and through involvement with her local Ukrainian community. She began making Pysanky at a very young age, too.

Melanie was inspired by Ukrainian embroidery and Pysanky when she launched her jewelry line, Mella Bella Designs, in 2015. She incorporated the motifs in her beadwork and metalwork, and used Pysanka shells in her designs.

Now, Melanie focuses almost exclusively on Pysanky and Pysanka jewelry. She and her mom, Irene, collaborate as Sim’ya Designs, and sell their work at Toronto’s One Of A Kind Show.

Melanie is also an Ontario Certified Teacher, and has been teaching for 25 years. She enjoys sharing her love of Pysanky with her students every year at Easter time.

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