DIY Wood Nativity

I’m not decorating for Christmas yet but I have started some Christmas crafting and this DIY wood nativity scene is my latest project. It’s a great way to use up scraps of wood and fabric and requires only a few cuts with a saw. For nativity collectors, this is a simple and fun one to add to your nativity collection!

To make a rustic wood nativity, you’ll need a thin piece of wood {about 1/4 of an inch thick} and three wooden clothespins like the ones seen in the photo below. You’ll also need one small piece of scrap wood {about 1/2 inch by 1 inch} to use as a manger and some fabric scraps for clothing.

To make the stable, cut a square, approximately 5 inches by 5 inches, then cut the top corners to form the roof. Cut another piece 5 inches long and about 1 inch wide.

Cut the three clothespins to varying heights to make Joseph, Mary, and Baby Jesus.

Glue the long strip of wood to the bottom of the shaped stable piece, forming a ninety degree angle.

Use scraps of fabric to clothe Joseph and Mary, simply using hot glue to attach the pieces of fabric. Keep the seams in the back. Use hot glue to attach Joseph and Mary to the stable.

Glue a piece of wood onto the base of the stable, wrap the baby in fabric like a blanket {or swaddling clothes} and glue the baby onto the manger.

Be sure all three figures are securely glued onto the stable.

Use a craft punch and vinyl or scrapbook paper to cut a gold star and glue it or adhere it onto the stable, somewhere above the manger.

Display this rustic DIY wood nativity among your Christmas decor for a fun, homemade touch.

This craft is even simple enough that the kids can help. An adult can make the saw cuts and kids can create the rest, getting a bit of help with the glue gun. It would even be a great idea for a Christmas craft night!