Putz houses originated in the 18th century as nativity scenes beneath the Christmas tree; however, as time moved on they became more decorative and more glamorous. By the 19th and 20th centuries, owners proudly displayed their collections on tables and mantels, letting the glittery rooftops twinkle in the light of a fireplace or open window.
When the Great Depression and WWII hit the US economy, many families had to get creative with their Christmas decor. Thus, putz houses were glued and tacked together out of scrap cardboard, paint and whatever else people could find. The result was a production of simple, yet heartwarming artworks that have now become collectors items.
With visions of putz houses dancing in our heads, we thought—let’s do a round up! Here’s our favorite picks that will make all your flea market Christmas dreams come true.
Would you like inspiration for a flea market decorated Christmas? Here’s a beautiful house tour that will give you plenty of ideas. Of course, don’t forget to follow our Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for some fresh flea market inspiration!
At Flea Market Decor, we love to curate and share our favorite finds from across the web with you. Some of the products you’ll see on this page are affiliate links, which means that if you click through and make a purchase, FMD will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you!
It's Good to be Green
Bring a burst of glittering beauty into your living room with this emerald green putz house. It'd look lovely complementing a red Christmas display.
Church Bells Ringing
If you're looking for something understated yet refined to add to your Christmas decorations this year, try out this darling chapel model. It even lights up to reveal a heartwarming glow from within.
Silver and Gold
Sprinkle some sparkle into your holidays with this putz house that shines like silver tinsel. Add it to an existing neighborhood or use it as a table centerpiece!
White Christmas
The charm of this white chapel will have you wrapped around its finger in no time. Will it go beneath the tree or next to the bowl of spiced nuts? You pick!
Merry Magenta
When we think of the 1940s, magenta is rarely the color that comes to mind, but it sue looks fabulous here doesn't it? Place this 1940s putz house in any place that needs some color.
Sugarplum Dreams
These crystallized pale pinks and blues can catch anyone's eye. Add it to your collection for a youthful touch of springtime in your winter decor.
Winter Wonderland
Dated all the way back to the 1930s, all this small neighborhood needs is some faux snow and twinkle lights to bring it to life.
Ye Merry Putz Houses
Place these 1960s putz houses throughout your table for some vintage bonus points. Not only are they great for conversation, but they're lovely to look at while your guests wait for their favorite dish to come around.
From the North Pole
This darling set from the 1950s will be a-gleaming and a-glowing all through the holiday season. A variety of color in your Christmas decor is a recipe for instant holiday cheer.
Away in a Putz House
If you have a bare shelf, fill up the empty space with a few putz houses from the 1940s. And they even come in Christmas colors—perfect!
