The Magic Behind Tom Martin’s Snowman Baubles

Every Christmas has its own story - whether it’s told through the scent of cinnamon, the twinkle of fairy lights, or the sound of carols drifting through the air. For some, it’s the tradition of unpacking cherished Christmas decorations; the ornaments that hold memories, magic, and meaning year after year. 

Among those treasures are Snowman baubles by Tom Martin - a truly one of a kind bauble that captures what Christmas is all about.

Beautifully hand-painted from the inside, these glass ornaments bring to life the timeless charm of The Snowman, a story that has captured hearts for generations. But behind each bauble lies another story, and that’s one of craftsmanship, heritage, and one person's mission to preserve an art form that is slowly fading.

Tom Martin - A brand rooted in tradition and craftsmanship

Tom Martin began in 2010, when 17-year-old Tom sought to preserve a cherished family tradition: gifting a unique, handcrafted bauble each Christmas. After realising the rarity of inside-painted ornaments, Tom pursued this centuries-old Chinese-Buddhist technique, creating 100 baubles for his parents that would later become the brand that it is today.

His experience soon ignited a passion, and soon, what began as a personal project grew into a business with a purpose: to preserve and modernise a centuries-old art form. By 2014, Tom Martin was established as a boutique British design house, specialising in hand-painted, inside-glass ornaments. With an emphasis on storytelling and fine craftsmanship, the brand began gaining attention not just from families and collectors, but from prestigious institutions, including luxury hotels and military regiments, who commissioned bespoke pieces to commemorate special events.

A major milestone came in 2019, when the company became the exclusive global licensee for The Snowman baubles. This collection, which is officially endorsed and lovingly detailed, cemented Tom Martin’s place in the world of premium Christmas décor and marked the start of a new chapter filled with storytelling, tradition, and a little seasonal magic.

The secret behind Tom Martin’s inside-painted baubles

At the heart of every Tom Martin bauble is a technique as delicate as it is extraordinary - inside painting. Unlike traditional ornaments, which are decorated on the surface, these hand-blown glass baubles are painted from the inside using just one brushstroke at a time.

Using specially curved, ultra-fine brushes, skilled artists reach through the narrow neck of the bauble to paint intricate designs directly onto the inner surface. What makes this process extra special is that it must be done in reverse, so the finest details are painted first, with each layer carefully added behind the last. It’s a painstaking method that demands exceptional patience, precision, and experience.

This rare art form traces back to 18th-century China, where it was traditionally used to decorate glass snuff bottles, but today, it survives through a small group of artisans, and through brands like Tom Martin, who are committed to preserving it.

The result really is something special - luminous scenes suspended within glass, rich with colour, depth, and festive storytelling. Whether it’s The Snowman or a bespoke design, each bauble is more than a decoration, it’s a miniature work of art that honours tradition while adding magic to the modern Christmas tree.

Tom Martin - The Snowman bauble collection

Tom Martin’s official The Snowman baubles bring the classic story to life in stunning detail. Each design captures a magical moment between the boy and his snowman, beautifully hand-painted from the inside of the glass.

Whether you're starting a new tradition or adding to a cherished collection, these ornaments capture and celebrate the warmth, wonder, and nostalgia that Christmas brings. 

Why are Tom Martin’s The Snowman baubles so special?

• Hand-painted from the inside using a rare reverse technique

• Officially licensed The Snowman designs

• Each bauble tells a scene from the original story

•  Individually boxed and ribbon-tied for perfect gifting

• No two are identical, each one is a unique piece of art

Inside-painted baubles - Our popular picks

Our Final Farewell - Tom and the Snowman bid a bittersweet goodbye over a moonlit townscape, a tear-jerker rendered beautifully on glass 

Building a Friend - A snowman in progress, crafted by Billy, capturing the delight of creation .

The Gift of Your Hug and Above the World - Continuing the story of friendship and wonder, perfect for sentimental collectors.

Why choose Tom Martin Snowman baubles this Christmas?

Truly authentic - They evoke the beloved story of The Snowman, making them ideal for sentimental gifting.

Craftsmanship - Inside-painting ensures each piece is unique, detailed, and more than just a decoration, it's art.

Exclusivity - Each bauble is a limited edition from a niche British brand.

Tradition - These baubles beautifully continue Tom Martin’s original mission: to create heirloom-quality decorations born from family tradition.

Bringing the Christmas magic to life

At David Shuttle, we’re honoured to offer a curated collection of Tom Martin Snowman baubles, the perfect piece for those seeking thoughtful gifts or starting a new tradition. Each unique bauble reflects the careful craftsmanship and heartfelt emotion that define the brand.

Whether you're drawn to the tender farewell of ‘Our Final Farewell’, the playful innocence of ‘Building a Friend’, or a future design, each bauble is sure to become a treasured symbol of festive joy.

If you're looking for a meaningful gift, a new collectible, or a stunning addition to your Christmas décor, explore the Tom Martin Snowman range at David Shuttle. Celebrate the season with art, emotion, and craftsmanship, all wrapped into a festive globe.

FAQs

What is a bauble?

A bauble is a decorative sphere, typically hanging on a Christmas tree. The word comes from bauble, meaning a small, showy trinket.

What are baubles made from?

Baubles are commonly made from:

• Glass (especially for high-end baubles)

• Acrylic or plastic (for safety and affordability)

• Metal, ceramic, or wood (in artisanal versions)

Tom Martin uses hand-blown glass and acrylic/oil paints, sealed and boxed for longevity.

How is inside-painting done on baubles?

The glass sphere is painted from the inside using hooked brushes. Artists meticulously work in a reverse sequence where fine details are completed first, then stronger backgrounds last. This unique method gives baubles three-dimensional depth and detail.

Are Tom Martin baubles collectibles?

Yes, Tom Martin Snowman baubles are limited-edition, hand-crafted, and officially licensed. Their rarity, artistry, and emotional resonance make them highly collectible.

How should I care for glass baubles?

You should care for your baubles by storing them in the original box when not in use, using a gentle, soft cloth to clean and avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.