On a recent trip to Nusnäs in Dalarna, we stopped at Nils Olsson’s factory to watch the production of Sweden’s iconic Dala Häst [Horse from Dalarna]. In the old days before it became a national symbol, fathers carved wooden toys for their children during the long days and evenings of Winter. Decorating the horses with brightly colored Swedish style curbit painting created one of Sweden’s most sought-after, ‘must have’ souvenirs. You really haven’t been to Sweden if you don’t bring home a “Dala Horse”…or rooster, or pig, or any one of many other beautiful items painted in the Dala style.

However, all through the years as the demand increased, the industry grew. Anyone wanting to earn a little money was welcome to work from home by taking a bag of rough cut horse blanks from the company and carving the horses at your leisure…just bring them back all carved and get another bunch to do. Many of my family’s relatives are from around Färnäs, Nusnäs, and the Mora area and have been Dala Häst carvers…some still are!

They really have the decorative painting down to a science. Watching them paint is magical – they do it as if they’ve done it forever and many of the people we watched have actually painted that long! It was so inspiring to watch…I have always wanted to paint Dala Horses. I’ve always thought that somewhere along the line I inherited a love for folk art and a desire to be creative….all because of my Swedish heritage. Notice I didn’t say “talent or ability”! But give me a brush and I am at peace with the world!

Enjoy these true to life video clips – we actually walked the places you are watching, saw what you are seeing, and enjoyed every moment. We hope you feel a little like we did – and even if you’re not too Swedish you have our permission to feel as Swedish as you want!