Make a simple, kid-friendly nativity set for the holidays!
Tips:
1
I bought a selection of these little wooden people from Amazon, and they came out to .30 apiece. However, my local craft store carries them for about .75 apiece.
2
I’m using Permapaque markers to decorate my little people. These come in a variety of colors, including some metallic shades. They have dual point tips for adding fine details or coloring large areas.
3
You may also want to add a coat of Mod Podge for extra durability and shine.
How to:
made with
1
I like to draw my outlines with the fine point first, then fill in the area with the larger nib. The ink is paint-like, but dries pretty much instantly, which saves on time and minimizes the mess. Plus there’s no need to continually wash paint brushes.
2
I’m going to keep the faces very simple, adding only two dots for eyes, spaced widely apart.
3
I’m coloring a basic robe.
4
Now I’m ready to make Mary. I’m adding a traditional head covering. I’m giving her bangs, and coloring her dress pink.
5
The baby will be dressed in white. I think he needs a manger, so I’m making a simple one from brown cardstock. Cut a rectangle that’s about an inch and a half wider and taller than the baby.
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Make two 1/2 -inch slits on each long side of the rectangle.
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Crease all four sides inward, folding by the slits to make tabs. Adhere the tabs with glue dots to create a box shape.
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I’m filling the manger with some yellow raffia I got at the dollar store. Strips of yellow paper would work, too.
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I’m keeping my set minimal, but you could make a more elaborate set that includes shepherds, wise men, and an angel.
Family Set
Of course, this project doesn’t have to be limited to a Christmas theme. I have three-year-old twin nephews who are getting a new baby sister. Perhaps role-playing with figurines that look just like their family might help them adjust.
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I’m using a curvier doll for mom. You can personalize these by adding details like freckles or jewelry. You can draw different necklines, or design patterns on their clothing.
2
Men might wear hats, have facial hair, or wear glasses.
3
If you’d like, you can add a coat of Mod Podge for extra durability and shine. If you’ve used a paint or marker other than Permapaque, be very careful, because Mod Podge can cause a lot of inks to smear. This isn’t an issue with Permapaque markers.
Remember, small toys like this can pose a choking hazard, so keep out of reach of children under 3. Other ideas for these little wooden people might include a set of Princesses, or maybe rescue workers like policemen or firemen.
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