Why are blow molds so popular?
They define the modern conceptualization of traditional as, in the last 65+ years, they have become so normal. They were once an innovative and new decoration for those looking for a way to spice things up. Now they are something to bridge decorating with antique hunting and that makes them a collectors item.
When did they stop making blow molds? Do they still make Christmas blow molds? Are blow molds coming back?
Union Products went out of business in 2006, 10 years after Don Featherstone, the founder of the industry, bought it out. Since then, the modern making has been largely taken over by companies in China. There has been no signs of the industry rebounding.
Why are blow mold Christmas decorations so expensive?
The rarer something is, the more expensive it is. While the passionate decorators’ enjoyment of this medium has not wavered, the general popularity went downhill to Union bankrupting. Collecting has become almost a cult following so that makes a double whammy as decreased supply also drives up cost.
How do you keep blow molds from falling down?
Simply use twine and attach to stakes. See my video reviewing types of stakes.
How do you store blow mold Christmas decorations?
Wipe with a damp clean cloth, with the mildest cleaner if needed. Wrap in plastic and hide from the sun, dirt, and anything that can scratch it. Make sure they are dry pre-storing as they can get black mold stored away and moist. Track shelves and hook & pulley systems are most helpful for placing them but read here for more information.
How do you restore blow mold Christmas decorations?
If you need to restore the paint, strip it with a plastic safe stripper then paint with Krylon Fusion. DO NOT USE A BRUSH, once the light is on it will look horrible, only spray on. Seal with a UV protectant as the sun is the worst enemy of Christmas decorations.
If you need to restore the plastic, use pieces of milk cartons to cover the issue and seal with epoxy. You will want to sand with the finest grain sandpaper possible then paint as above.
Please comment with any experience or further tips and questions you may have on this topic.
What a blast from the past! This reminds me of my grandparents’ Christmas decor. I didn’t realize there was a technical term for it. Thanks for sharing the history behind it!
I’ve heard so many terms over the years but this one apparently is the most common for those ‘in the know’.
That was really interesting! We had so many of these blow mold decorations growing up. I think they still linger around my parent’s attic. If I ever go collect them, I’ll reference this to tidy them up!
It’s practically like finding one of those antique roadshow treasures. If you’re not using, make sure to see if anyone else is interested and you might make a few dollars
I am always reading things I had never considered on here… lol I had no idea what the giant plastic decorations were called. And I definitely, for some unknown reason, had never considered that someone would repair them! Wow. I’m always learning new things. Thanks!
It definitely hearkens back to the time of fixing rather than turfing, arguably one of the most traditional elements
You always have such great info on things I’ve never thought about!
Thanks for coming by, I hope to inspire you and everyone else to make new ways to express themselves in this medium
I love the history behind nostalgic items like these! Oh, makes me wish I could have seen these in their hay day! Off to ebay to see if I can score one!
I’ve seen these around the holidays, of course, but never knew what they were called or the history of them. I’m always interested in the history of things so this was informative and a delightful read!
Interesting article. I’m pretty sure I’ve seen these around before. Now I will remember what they are called .
Wow! I had no idea that’s what they were called! Great tips! I never would’ve thought about not brushing the paint on, but now I’m imagining how terrible that would look!
Another really interesting article. I have never thought about this before but I love the history behind nostalgic items like these!