Make a DIY Nativity Scene

Nativity scenes are so popular in home decor during Christmas, but many of us just cannot seem to find one that we like in particular. There is an alternative. You can choose to make your own. This will take a couple of hours but be well worth it.

Here is a list of items to buy that will make it easier for you.

Characters:
Beby Jesus
Mary
Joseph
A shepherd or two with a few sheep
Wise men (however many you want)
1/2" wood about 6" wide and probably no longer than six feet depending on how big the characters are
linchen or moss from a hobby store for the floor of the nativity

Wow! That seems simple. You can buy paint or stain to finsh the wood out. You can have the structure as simple as four pieces; two sides, a flat roof, and the base floor. Once the wood is painted or stained, let it dry before glueing down the moss. Before you cut the wood, layout the characters where you want them and measure out the area they will occupy. That way you will not cut the floor too short. If you need wider wood then do your layout before buying the other materials.

I have seen at www.preciousmoments.com a few select pieces that would go well with your nativity scene. You will spend a bit of money on them, but they will become treasures for your family in the future. Here is a link to them.

http://www.preciousmoments.com/content.cfm/shop_results?ptid=5&poid=3&amtid=1&pkid=&psid=&vall=1

You can buy them elsewhere, or if you decide, you can try to make your own. A couple of carving tools and some plaster will get you started. You can them paint them however you want.