For over three and a half decades, the enchanting creations of the Christopher Radko Company have become synonymous with holiday joy in millions of American homes. The exquisite craftsmanship, radiance, and uniqueness of each hand-crafted ornament illuminate households worldwide, making the holiday season truly magical.
From Illustration to Ornament: A Year-Long Journey of Artistry
The journey of a Christopher Radko ornament begins with intricate illustrations crafted by Radko artists. The year-long process of sculpting, molding, and sampling unfolds in family-owned European factories, employing centuries-old techniques to bring each ornament to life. It's a labor-intensive process that takes a full seven days to complete.
A Symphony of Creativity: The Design Process
More than a year before the ornaments' release, a dedicated team of designers, carvers, molders, and glass blowers collaborates to transform an idea into a magnificent holiday decoration. Drawing inspiration from Christmas classics, fine paintings, collector suggestions, and life events, the Radko team works tirelessly to ensure each ornament is a perfect piece of art.
From Idea to Mold: The Artistic Journey Unfolds
Once the idea is submitted, a sculptor creates a three-dimensional mold from clay, and the Radko team meticulously inspects every curve and indent to ensure perfection. The process continues as the sculpt travels to a mold maker who crafts a sand-cast model from molten metal using a technique dating back to the Renaissance.
The Seven-Day Production Process: A Work of Art in Motion
Day 1: The glassblower creates a solid ornament from clear tempered glass, known for its remarkable strength. This gives the Radko ornament a distinct weight and solid feel.
Day 2: The ornament is silvered, adding the luminescence that will brighten up your Christmas tree. This base enriches each hand-painted stroke, ensuring delicate details come to life.
Day 3 & 4: A base coat of matte lacquer is hand-applied on the third day, followed by a second coat on the fourth day with additional colors.
Day 5: Fine embellishments are added, ensuring even the smallest detail, from Santa’s rosy cheeks to strawberry seeds, is meticulously applied.
Day 6: The ornament comes to life as sparkle enhances Santa’s eyes, and icing is spread onto the gingerbread house. Glitter highlights every contour for admiration from any angle.
Day 7: The ornaments undergo meticulous inspection, ensuring the highest standards of workmanship. The golden Radko charm and custom-designed R-A-D-K-O ornament crown are added before careful packing and shipment to Radko's offices and warehouses in the United States.
Tradition Meets Craftsmanship: A Legacy of Over Twenty Years
Christopher Radko has been a beacon of holiday traditions, designing and producing handmade ornaments, gifts, and home decor for over two decades. Each piece is a testament to the dedication, artistry, and passion that goes into creating a timeless collection, inviting you to start the tradition of adorning your tree with a new Radko ornament every year.
Embrace the magic, celebrate the holidays, and make each season more enchanting with the beauty of Christopher Radko ornaments – a true embodiment of artistry and festive spirit.