Rocking Horse Memories
1st in the series.

Timeless Traditions
A favorite of fans and kids alike is coming back this year.


For his first series as a Keepsake artist, Matt Johnson looked to the past: “Rocking horses have such a rich history associated with children’s toys and Christmastime,” he says.

And for Keepsake Ornaments, the Rocking Horse series was one of the most popular series ever produced running for 16 years starting in 1981. As he approached the series for 2020, Matt says it felt like a good time for a refresh.

For his new series, Matt used a combination of materials to create his rocking horse, like formed metal to create the stirrups and embroidery thread for the tail and reins. Each year, the horses will be painted in different colors and patterns and adorned with different embellishments.

Whether you’re looking to start a series in honor of your newest family member or are just a fan of the childhood classic, this new tradition is sure to leave your tree looking as timeless as the horses that adorn it.

“Timeless Traditions.” 2020 Dream Book: 8