As we know, “Everything old is new again.” One of the “new old” Christmas decorations is the ceramic tabletop Christmas tree. They were the rage in the1970s, and while many of the pre-lit trees were available in stores, many crafty people made their own from kits or shops that told you how. Today new versions can be found almost every place that sells Christmas ornaments and decorations. There is even a YouTube video that shows a woman making a ceramic tree on a potter’s wheel. Many of the new trees are battery-operated; old ones have a long power cord to plug into the wall. Take your pick – new green, white, pink or cream-colored trees are easy to find for about $20 to $60, less than the vintage examples. A 1960s tree may be in your mother’s attic. Old ones are online for $70 to $150 plus shipping which is expensive, $20 to $40. There are also sources online that sell parts to restore the old ones.
Photo Credit: Countryliving.com | Instagram.com/backaroundvintage
I have my Grandmother’s ceramic Christmas Tree from the late 60’s early 70’s. It’s at the large one with the tree and two sets of boughs. It has snow on the branches, and Christmas lights and a star. It lights up with an aquarium lightbulb and has a music box. I made it, and it won first place in our fall festival. I don’t exactly remember when I made it. But I know I got 3-4 commissions from that win.
I’ve inherited boxes of Christmas ornaments and decorations. When I was able to have a very large tree, I used the old ornaments and decorations along with mine and some new ones. It’s much too large for me to handle now.
It’s such a waste to see these in boxes. Some family members have said, “no thank you.” Other family members live far away and I’m afraid they’ll break in the transfer.
I love all of them.