Dept 56 Christmas Ornaments Collectors Guide

The magic of Christmas is in the air, and for many collectors, that means it's time to break out the Dept 56 Christmas ornaments. For over 40 years, Dept 56 has been a leading manufacturer of ceramic and porcelain Christmas villages, Snowbabies, and ornaments. Their intricate designs, attention to detail, and nostalgic charm have made them a favorite among collectors. In this guide, we'll delve into the world of Dept 56 Christmas ornaments, exploring their history, popularity, and what makes them so special.

A Brief History of Dept 56

Dept 56, short for Department 56, was founded in 1976 by Edward B. Gieringer, a talented artist and designer. Initially, the company focused on creating intricate ceramic houses and accessories for dollhouses. However, it wasn't long before Gieringer turned his attention to Christmas-themed decorations. The first Dept 56 Christmas village, "The Original Snow Village," was introduced in 1976 and quickly gained popularity.

Over the years, Dept 56 has expanded its product lines to include a wide range of Christmas ornaments, Snowbabies, and other holiday-themed decorations. Today, Dept 56 is part of the Enesco, LLC family of brands, and its products are enjoyed by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.

What Makes Dept 56 Ornaments So Special?

So, what sets Dept 56 Christmas ornaments apart from others? Here are a few reasons why collectors love them:

• Attention to detail: Dept 56 ornaments are known for their intricate designs and attention to detail. From the delicate patterns on a Snowbaby's face to the intricate architecture of a ceramic house, every element is carefully crafted to create a unique and captivating piece.
• Quality materials: Dept 56 uses high-quality ceramic and porcelain materials to create their ornaments. This ensures that they are durable and long-lasting, making them a valuable addition to any Christmas collection.
• Nostalgic charm: Dept 56 ornaments often feature classic Christmas characters and scenes, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Whether it's a nostalgic Christmas tree, a festive holiday shop, or a cheerful snowman, Dept 56 ornaments are sure to bring a smile to your face.
• Limited editions: Dept 56 regularly releases limited-edition ornaments, making them highly sought after by collectors. These special editions often feature unique designs, characters, or themes, adding to their allure and value.

Types of Dept 56 Christmas Ornaments

Dept 56 offers a wide range of Christmas ornaments, catering to diverse tastes and interests. Here are some popular types of Dept 56 ornaments:

• Snowbabies: These adorable, snow-covered figurines are a hallmark of Dept 56's product line. Snowbabies feature a variety of characters, from children and animals to festive holiday scenes.
• Ceramic houses: Dept 56's ceramic houses are intricately designed and detailed, featuring everything from cozy cottages to grand mansions. These houses can be used to create a festive holiday village or displayed individually as ornaments.
• Porcelain figurines: Dept 56's porcelain figurines are highly detailed and feature a range of characters, from traditional Christmas figures like Santa and reindeer to more whimsical characters like snowmen and penguins.
• Ornament collections: Dept 56 regularly releases themed ornament collections, featuring characters and designs from popular franchises like Disney, Star Wars, and Harry Potter.

Dept 56 Ornaments for Beginners

If you're new to collecting Dept 56 ornaments, here are some popular and accessible options to get you started:

• Dept 56 Snowbaby Figurines: These adorable figurines are a great introduction to the world of Dept 56. With a wide range of characters and designs, you're sure to find one that suits your taste.
• Dept 56 Ceramic Houses: These intricately designed houses are a staple of Dept 56's product line. Start with a single house or create a festive holiday village with multiple buildings.
• Dept 56 Porcelain Ornaments: Dept 56's porcelain ornaments feature a range of characters and designs, from traditional Christmas figures to more whimsical characters.

Collecting and Displaying Dept 56 Ornaments

Collecting and displaying Dept 56 ornaments can be a fun and rewarding hobby. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Start with a theme: Choose a theme or collection that resonates with you, whether it's Snowbabies, ceramic houses, or a specific franchise.
• Invest in a display case: Consider investing in a display case or cabinet to showcase your Dept 56 ornaments. This will help protect them from dust and damage while keeping them visible and accessible.
• Handle with care: Dept 56 ornaments are delicate and should be handled with care. Avoid touching the surfaces, as oils from your skin can damage the ceramic or porcelain.
• Keep them clean: Regularly dust and clean your Dept 56 ornaments to keep them looking their best. Use a soft cloth and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

Conclusion

Dept 56 Christmas ornaments are a beloved tradition for many collectors. With their attention to detail, quality materials, and nostalgic charm, it's easy to see why they're so popular. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, Dept 56 has something for everyone. So why not start your own Dept 56 collection today and experience the magic of these delightful Christmas ornaments?

We'd love to hear from you! Share your favorite Dept 56 ornaments, collecting tips, or display ideas in the comments below.