Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – The Crafted Christmas

Welcome to our FAQ section at The Crafted Christmas. We’re dedicated to helping you build and maintain your cherished Department 56 collections. Below, you’ll find answers to the most common questions we receive.

1. What is Department 56, and why is it collectible?
Department 56 is a premier creator of hand-crafted, hand-painted ceramic villages and collectibles. Founded in 1976, its value lies in its exceptional artistry, intricate details, and rich storytelling. Each piece, from the Snow Village to the Dickens’ Christmas Village, captures a unique nostalgic essence. Their collectibility stems from their limited production runs, high quality, and the strong emotional connection they foster, often becoming family heirlooms passed down through generations.

2. How do I start collecting Department 56 villages?
Starting a collection is an exciting journey! We recommend:

• Choosing a Theme: Select a village series that resonates with you, such as the classic Heritage Village, the festive Christmas in the City, or the whimsical North Pole Series.
• Start with a Core Piece: Begin with a central building, like a house or shop, and a few accessory pieces like trees and figurines.
• Plan Your Display: Consider the space you have. Many collectors use a table, mantel, or dedicated shelving unit.
• Expand Gradually: Add new buildings and accessories each season to build your story. Remember, collecting is a personal experience—there’s no wrong way to do it!

3. What is the difference between “retired” and “active” pieces?
Active pieces are currently in production and available for purchase directly from Department 56 and authorized retailers like us. Retired pieces are those that Department 56 has ceased manufacturing. Once a piece is retired, it is only available through the secondary market, often making it more valuable and sought-after by collectors.

4. Do you carry retired or hard-to-find Department 56 pieces?
Yes, a core part of our mission at The Crafted Christmas is to help collectors find both current and retired pieces to complete their displays. Our inventory of retired items changes frequently. We encourage you to check our website regularly or contact us if you are searching for a specific retired item, as we may be able to source it for you.

5. How should I light my village?
The recommended way to light your Department 56 village is using their proprietary Light Bulbs and Cord Sets. These are low-wattage bulbs designed to produce a warm, gentle glow without generating excessive heat that could damage your ceramic pieces. We strongly advise against using higher-wattage or LED bulbs not approved by Department 56, as they can pose a fire hazard or damage the electrical cord.

6. What is the best way to store my villages during the off-season?
Proper storage is key to preserving your collection.

• Use Original Packaging: Always save the original boxes and styrofoam inserts. They are custom-designed to protect your pieces.
• Wrap Carefully: If original packaging is unavailable, wrap each piece individually in acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap.
• Label Boxes: Clearly label storage boxes with the contents for easy retrieval next season.
• Choose a Safe Location: Store boxes in a cool, dry place away from temperature extremes and direct sunlight.

7. My piece arrived damaged. What should I do?
We take great care in packaging your collectibles. However, if your item arrives damaged, please contact our customer service team immediately through the portal on our website. Include your order number and photos of the damaged product and its packaging. We will work with you promptly to arrange a replacement or refund, in accordance with our return policy.

8. Can I use fake snow or other materials in my display?
Yes, but with caution. Loose, static-cling snow is generally safe. Avoid using spray-on snow or any wet, abrasive, or adhesive materials directly on the buildings, as they can damage the paint and ceramic finish. It’s best to apply decorative snow to your base (e.g., a board or batting) rather than directly onto the pieces.

9. Do you offer any discounts or loyalty programs?
At The Crafted Christmas, we appreciate our loyal customers. We occasionally run promotions and special offers, which are announced through our newsletter and on our website. We recommend signing up for our newsletter to stay informed about upcoming sales and exclusive collector events.

10. How can I get help if my question isn’t answered here?
Our team of passionate collectors is always ready to assist you. For any questions about specific pieces, display ideas, or troubleshooting, please do not hesitate to reach out through the contact form on our website. We are here to ensure your collecting experience is as magical as the villages themselves.