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Inside the Artisan Studio: Creating Old World Christmas Ornaments

Every Christmas tree adorned with Old World Christmas ornaments tells a story, but few know how these exquisite decorations come to life. For nearly half a century, Old World Christmas has been at the forefront of the heirloom ornament industry, crafting unique mouth-blown glass ornaments using techniques that date back to the 1800s.

In their first revealing documentary titled "How It's Made," viewers get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the mesmerizing process that transforms simple glass tubes into cherished heirlooms. Shot with intricately detailed macro lenses, the film highlights each step, from blowing to painting, showcasing the craftsmanship that makes each ornament truly one-of-a-kind.

A Closer Look at the Creation Process

The journey of an Old World Christmas ornament begins with a clear glass cylinder, which artisans heat over an open flame until it's malleable. A skilled glassblower then blows air into the glass, causing it to expand and fill a custom-designed mold. This ancient technique ensures that every piece, while following the same steps, comes out slightly different, giving each ornament its own unique personality.

After cooling in an annealer to prevent cracking, the transformed glass is coated with a liquid-silver solution. This crucial step provides the ornaments with their signature shimmering interior. Depending on the design, some pieces are further dipped in warm water to enhance their reflective qualities, while others receive a lacquer finish to add a splash of color.

Once the glass ornament is prepared, the skilled artisans engage in the meticulous hand-painting process. Each detail is carefully painted, bringing the ornament's design to life. The finishing touch involves applying glue and glitter, giving each piece its final burst of sparkle before it’s capped and tagged with a unique story.

Heritage and Craftsmanship

Old World Christmas honors its heritage by adhering to the same techniques pioneered in Lauscha, Germany, centuries ago. Every ornament goes through numerous hands, from the initial sketch ideas to the final product, embodying a collective effort that cherishes craftsmanship and tradition. The brand currently boasts over 2,000 distinct designs in its catalog, ranging from seasonal themes to whimsical interpretations.

As President and CEO Neal Applefeld eloquently states, “When you see the glass blown by mouth, shaped by hand, and then painted one stroke at a time, you understand why families keep these for generations. Every piece is made by hand, and to us that’s what putting a memory on the tree is all about.”

Discover the Magic

For those curious to witness this enchanting process, the one-minute film "Inside the Studio: How a Glass Christmas Ornament Is Made" is available on YouTube, alongside a more in-depth three-minute version. Visitors can also explore and purchase Old World Christmas ornaments online at oldworldchristmas.com or through various U.S. retailers.

As you prepare for the holiday season, remember that each ornament holds not just beauty but a story—a memory etched in glass. This Christmas, let the handcrafted elegance of Old World Christmas adorn your tree and add a touch of history to your celebrations.