Polish ornaments shine as vintage crafts make them one of top world exports

In a small town on the outskirts of Warsaw, lumps of glass are transformed into dazzling holiday decorations, as Silverado, a family-owned factory in Jozefow, polishes the tradition of mouth-blown Christmas ornaments, captivating buyers across the globe and spreading festive cheer.

Poland has become a key player in the global market for festive decorations based on traditional styles and methods, thanks to skilled artisans like those at Silverado.

Founded nearly three decades ago, Silverado has earned international recognition for its handmade ornaments. Some of its creations have even adorned the White House Christmas tree, cementing the factory’s reputation for exceptional quality and artistry. Silverado produces everything from shimmering baubles to intricate figurines, each piece a testament to the tradition of mouth-blown glasswork.

“You really need to do this with passion, to put your heart into the glass,” said Ryszard Baran, a glass artist and veteran of the craft. “If you put your heart into it, the glass will give you back what you put in.” His words reflect the deep commitment that drives the team at Silverado to preserve the centuries-old craft while also pushing it forward into the modern world.

Silverado’s dedication to quality has helped the factory carve out an enviable niche in a highly competitive market. According to a 2024 report from Akcenta, a company specialising in FX transactions and services, Poland exported €68.2 million worth of Christmas decorations in 2023, ranking fifth globally and third in Europe. The success of factories like Silverado has been instrumental in elevating Poland’s position as a major player in the global festive decoration market.

However, Silverado faces intense competition, particularly from China, which dominates in terms of price. Co-owner Stanisław Slodyczka acknowledges the challenge. “Their prices are not achievable for us, because of labour costs and all the other factors,” he said. “But our main goal is to compete with them in terms of quality, design, creating new ornaments, new decorations, and, of course, the tradition.”

Despite the challenges, Silverado has remained true to its roots while adapting to modern tastes. Each year, the company introduces new collections inspired by fashion, architecture, and nature, ensuring that its timeless craftsmanship continues to captivate global audiences.

In a world where mass production often compromises quality, Silverado stands as a shining example of how tradition and innovation can coexist to create timeless pieces that bring joy to homes around the world during the holiday season.

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