Founded :
Tim and Beth Merck founded the company and are credited with reintroducing figural glass ornaments to the United States. The company was founded in 1979 and is based in Spokane, Washington.
Figural Glass Ornaments:
Old World Christmas glass ornaments are affordable and are easy to find locally. With approximately 900 different designs -- there is something for everyone! Ornament designs include the classic traditionals, whimsical, hobbies, sports, florals -- just about everything for year-round decorating.
Inside Art:
Inside Art ornaments are hand-painted on the inside of the ornament, creating a beautiful scene that is both an interesting and a different look than a "typical" glass figural ornament. A tiny brush inserted through the top of the ornament is used to do an outline, then the artist will fill in the colors and shading. If you ever have a chance to watch a demonstration -- it's fascinating.
Ornaments can take anywhere from days to weeks to complete and come in individual silk damask boxes.
Glistening Ornaments:
The 2006 introduction of Glistening ornaments is a new step for the company. These blown-glass ornaments are embellished with special glitters and paints.
Ornaments come in a silk box with a clear lid. Prices range from $13.99 to $99.99. Many have scenes painted on the body of the Santas and Snowmen.
Santa Lights:
Although Old World Christmas is known for their glass ornaments, their annual Santa Light is one design collectors look forward to seeing every year. The 2006 edition is number 22 in the series and features an old-fashioned Santa with a small sled and Christmas tree.
The Halloween lights are also very collectible and sought after by the ever increasing numbers of Halloween fans.
Light Covers:
Inspired by antique figural holiday lights, Tim Merck invented the glass light cover that is designed to slip over existing miniature lights.
The Bottom Line:
Old World Christmas is not only one of the older figural glass ornament companies in the United States, it is one of the most affordable. With an extensive line of over 900 pieces, there is surely something for everyone.
When I am looking for a quick, inexpensive gift for Christmas I go to a local store that has large inventory of Old World Christmas. At one of our annual Christmas Open Houses, I visited the store and found an ornament that fit everyone who attended. I had a great time picking them out and the staff also had fun helping me decide just which patriotic one I needed for an ex-marine or what particular animal would be perfect for a pet owner, ornaments to fit every personality.
Sources Include:
Old World Christmas
