3/4 c. butter
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt

Mix shortening, sugar, eggs and vanilla. Mix flour, baking powder and salt. Stir together and chill 1 hour. Heat oven to 400 degrees. Roll out 1/8 inch thick. Cut in desired shapes. Place on ungreased baking sheets. Paint with egg yolk paint. Bake 6 to 8 minutes.

EGG YOLK PAINT:

1 egg yolk
1/4 tsp. water

Divide mixture and add food coloring. Paint designs on cookies with paint brush. If paint thickens, add few drops of water.