I started with an ostrich egg for this because Robin wanted something big, bold and eye-catching! After taking the shiny outer layer off with acid, I waxed the outlines of the pink ribbons, blue bands and floral motifs on top and bottom. Then I proceeded through the layers of waxing and dyeing. I had some difficulty with the darkest blue. The dye "took" but wasn't absorbed into the egg, so as soon as you touch it, the dye would wipe off. Very frustrating, especially after all that work! Sometimes an egg just gets exhausted and doesn't want to play anymore. Usually this happens when I do a lot of etching, which I did on this egg to make the designs really pop. I let it rest overnight, then gave it a vinegar bath to refresh the shell and was able to get one more good blue dye bath and finish the job.
As for the design, I think the interlocking pink ribbons work great as a communicator of the brand but also as a pretty design element. The robin's egg blue background is a perfect foil to the bright rose pink. My favorite part is something I added later in the process. As much as I like the floral garland around the top and bottom, I thought it needed some life so I added a few fluttering butterflies for interest. Love them! See if you can spot them as you look through the photos.
This egg is going to be a part of the auction, so if you are interested in it, please contact the Susan G. Komen NYC Chapter for more information. It's a great cause and a lovely egg, so bid high!
