Hand blown Christmas glass balls- how to tell the difference between hand blown and machine made balls.

Luxury is all about craftsmanship, and nowhere is that more evident during the holidays than in the exquisite hand-blown glass Christmas balls from Joanna Buchanan. These ornaments are designed to bring a level of refinement and elegance to your tree that simply can’t be achieved with mass-produced decorations. Each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans the Czech Republic, making it a one-of-a-kind treasure that transforms holiday decorating into something truly special.

The difference between hand-blown glass ornaments and machine-made glass balls is remarkable. Machine-made ornaments tend to be uniform often lacking the delicate quality and intricate detail that comes from artisan work. Hand-blown glass, on the other hand, is created using traditional glassmaking techniques. Each ornament is carefully shaped by an artisan, resulting in a thinner, lighter, more luminous piece. Because the glass is so fine, it reflects twinkling tree lights beautifully, creating a subtle, elegant sparkle that feels timeless and magical. The hanger on each hand blown ball is made in one seamless piece with the ornamnts- on machine made balls, there is a metal piece inserted which holds the hanger loop.

The lightness of these ornaments is one of Joanna’s favorite details. She loves that they are as light as air and won’t weigh down or bend the tree branches, allowing the tree itself to shine as part of the design. These ornaments float effortlessly among the branches, enhancing the natural beauty of the tree rather than overwhelming it.

In addition to their delicate structure, the surface of each 'feather paint' hand-blown ornament is hand-painted to create Joanna’s signature “tortoiseshell glass” effect—a finish that is both modern and classic. The pattern is achieved through meticulous handwork, making every piece unique. No two ornaments are ever exactly the same, and that is part of their charm. The colours used in the collection are personally selected by Joanna for their distinctive tones. Unusual pastels, tawny brown, amethyst, and bold fuchsia pink create a vibrant, unexpected  palette that complements a variety of holiday décor styles.

The beauty of this collection extends beyond ornaments. Joanna Buchanan also offers exquisite hand-blown glass tree toppers in unique color combinations you won’t find anywhere else. These toppers are the crowning jewel of a Christmas tree—a statement piece that adds drama, sophistication, and undeniable luxury.

When you hold one of these ornaments in your hand, you can immediately feel the difference. The craftsmanship is evident in the lightness of the glass, the brilliance of the reflective surface, and the artistry of the hand-painted details. Unlike machine-made pieces, these ornaments are heirloom quality—designed to be cherished and enjoyed year after year.

Joanna’s hand-blown glass collection is perfect for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and the quiet luxury of something truly special. They sparkle, they shimmer, and they bring a touch of timeless beauty to any tree. Whether it’s a single tortoiseshell ornament or a stunning glass tree topper, these pieces will make your holiday décor unforgettable. This is Christmas decorating at its most elegant—light, luminous, and completely unique.

 

← Older Post Newer Post →