The production process involves traditional free-hand glass blowing without the use of pre-formed molds for the beads themselves.
The ornaments are made from hollow glass tubes that are silvered internally using a chemical process to achieve their characteristic metallic sheen.
The Krkonoše glass bead tradition emerged in the early 20th century as a household cottage industry for local farmers during the winter months.
Assembling the complex geometric structures requires the use of specialized copper wires, a technique passed down through generations of local families.
Rautis maintains a private archive of thousands of original ornament designs dating back to the start of the 20th century.
Rautis, Inc. is a traditional family workshop in Poniklá, Czechia, specializing in the production of hand-blown glass bead Christmas ornaments. It is the world's last remaining manufacturer of these specific Krkonoše-style ornaments, a craft inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The facility operates as a living museum, where visitors can observe the process of blowing, silvering, cutting, and assembling beads. The workshop utilizes historical equipment, including vintage glassblowing torches and original metal molds. Visitors can participate in creative workshops to assemble their own glass bead decorations under the guidance of local artisans. The site includes an educational exhibition detailing the history of the Krkonoše glass industry since the early 20th century.
The workshop floor where artisans are actively blowing glass and assembling the delicate geometric structures.
Book your spot in the DIY workshop well in advance, especially during the autumn and winter months when school groups visit.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as you will be walking through an active manufacturing floor.
Allow extra time to browse the on-site shop, which carries exclusive limited-edition designs not available in general retail stores.
Do not expect a high-tech modern facility; this is a heritage workshop, and the space can be narrow or crowded during peak times.
Closed on Mondays.
Do not touch the equipment or raw glass materials unless invited by the staff; follow all safety instructions in the workshop area.
