Check out my Etsy shop!

Monday, December 19, 2011

Away in a manger

I have been trying to think of something that my grand kids could make when they come to visit on Christmas eve.  They are always excited to make something and because of the excitement of the day and what we are celebrating, I came up with this idea.  I was looking for a wooden X to start the project but all of the craft stores only had just a few and I needed 9! As I looked at all of the wooden shapes,  I saw a cross and realized that it would work!  I also thought it interesting that because I was making something to celebrate Christ's birth that the manger would be made from something that he left this life on, (a cross). I used a ruler to make a straight line and used a table saw to make the cut.

I then needed something to use as the cradle for the manger and used a small rectangle of burlap for this.

To make the body of baby Jesus I used some white felt, about 1 1/2 inches by 6 inches. I rolled it up and secured it with some fabric glue.

I used some wire to be used to hold the star, I found the stars at Michael"s and they were just the right size.

I used a small wooden bead for the head and added some wisps of hair to cover the hole of the bead.  I put the heads together ahead of time because it would just be easier than having each grandchild paint and glue the hair.

I used some white flannel to swaddle this little child used some glue to keep Him wrapped and a button was added with glue to the swaddling. (just because I thought it was cute.)

I used some excelsior ( the hay for the manger) and put it all together.

I did add a small wooden base and because it makes the manger a little more stable. (is that a play on words?) I then painted them a yellow gold color.
I made a small hole for the wire to be attached and used some glue to keep it secure.

I then attached the star to hang over the Christ child. I think it turned out perfect and hopefully will help my grandchildren remember why we are celebrating this wonderful day. I think they will have dun putting them all together.
Merry Christmas!

12 comments:

Rachel said...

I think that is a beautiful idea! We have been trying to think of things we can do so that they can remember the "reason for the season." This is perfect!

Jessica J. said...

So cute. Great idea. Good thing you are doing so well to appease everyone :)

needle and nest said...

What a wonderful project! I love the symbolism in the crosses you used to make the manger. Merry Christmas to you and your family! :)

Unknown said...

I'm hosting a PARTY, too! I'd love for you to link this and any other fun projects of yours, too!!!

XO,
Aimee from ItsOverflowing.com
Overflowing with Creativity

Unknown said...

So cute Mother! Wish we could be there...someday.

Anonymous said...

Those are adorable, thanks for sharing!

Liz @ the Brambleberry Cottage said...

This craft is just precious, Donene! And I think it's WONDERFUL that you are creating something with your grandchildren that will point them to the REAL reason for celebrating Christmas!

Thanks for linking to Time Travel Thursday this week, and I hope you have a blessed Christmas. Enjoy those grandchildren of yours!!! ;)

Hugs,
Liz @ The Brambleberry Cottage
http://thebrambleberrycottage.blogspot.com/

Naperville Now said...

darling. can't wait til ours are older!

Be Colorful Coastal said...

So timely and sweet. Thank you for sharing this on BeColorful's link party this week.
Pam

Unknown said...

You already know I LOVE this! SUPER CUTE!!! The true reason for the season!!! XO!

PS I'm adding this to my FB page right now!!!

Anonymous said...

So cute, so sweet, and so beautiful. And what a great craft to do with the kids! Love it.

Leanne @ because (i think) i can

Krista's Paper Cafe said...

I saw your creation on Uncommon Designs. Your manger is beautiful and touching. And I like that a child could make this as well.
I am no. 94. Please visit?
http://www.kristaspapercafe.com/christmas-ornaments/

LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails