Every Caroler is created in our Pennsylvania workshop by the loving hands of a team of skilled artisans. Starting with a simple coat hanger; learn how tradition, creativity, and craftsmanship come together to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake.
How They're Made
For many, unpacking their Carolers each season feels like welcoming back an old friend. That sense of warmth and familiarity is no accident—it’s the result of a thoughtful, handcrafted process that begins with the simplest of materials
Step One
Plaster
Each Caroler begins with a coat hanger. This is cut and bent to form a wire frame. Plaster is hand poured on a table, with the coat hanger placed in the plaster before it dries.
Step Two
Heading
Joyce sculpts every original head, from which plaster molds are poured. Clay is then pressed into the plaster molds. As the clay is removed from the mold, it gets slightly distorted. The artisan "cleans up" the head ensuring that each one is unique.
Step Three
Wrapping
After the plaster base hardens, it is painted the signature Byers Choice green. From there, the body is sculpted by carefully wrapping layers of tissue paper around the armature. Each wrap is shaped and smoothed to build the Caroler’s individual posture and form.
Step Five
Feature Painting
After the clay head is fully dried, its coated with flesh-toned paint to create the base complexion. Artisans then delicately hand-paint each face using an impressionistic technique that adds character with a few thoughtful brushstrokes. The subtle variations in expression, gaze, and detail mean that no two Carolers are exactly alike!
Step Six
Cutting
Joyce designs every outfit worn by the Carolers, drawing from an extensive library of fabrics, ribbons, and lace. Once a design is finalized, the materials are hand-cut in combinations to bring each ensemble to life. This thoughtful mixing of textures and patterns ensures variety and charm across every collection.
Step Seven
Dressing
Skilled dressers assemble each Caroler by hand, carefully attaching the painted head and hand-cut garments to the sculpted body. With every fold of fabric and adjustment in posture, they bring a distinct personality to life. The way a coat flutters or a scarf falls adds a unique sense of movement to the figure.
Step Eight
Finishing
With each handcrafted detail complete, the Caroler comes to life—ready to bring joy, warmth, and tradition into your home. Every figure reflects the care and creativity of the many hands that shaped it, continuing a legacy of holiday craftsmanship meant to be treasured for generations.
