8. Brick Chimney Ornaments
A tiny brick chimney ornament is one of those little details that makes people smile. Hung on a tree, it suggests Santa has been there, even on a simple branch. It also looks wonderful tucked into a garland or wired onto a wreath.
To make one, form a small hollow rectangle from polymer clay, layered cardboard, or craft wood. The size should be about one and a half inches tall, one inch wide, and one inch deep. Score the brick pattern into the four outer sides, leaving the top and bottom smooth. If you’re using clay, hollow out the center a little to mimic the real shape.
Paint it in your chosen brick color, add a touch of soot blackening around the top opening for realism, and tie a small loop of twine to one side so it can hang on a branch. Some crafters like to add a tiny puff of cotton or felted wool “smoke” coming out of the top, which is especially sweet on a children’s tree.
Time required is about an hour, and the difficulty is moderate. These ornaments are conversation starters because they feel nostalgic without being overly sentimental.