How to Make Simple Nativity Costumes

Putting on a Nativity play is a common practice for many Christians during Christmastime. Purchasing costumes or having them made by a professional seamstress can be very expensive. Thankfully, making your own Nativity costumes is very simple and can be done relatively cheaply. To make simple Nativity costumes you will need only a few supplies. If you take care and properly store your costumes, they can be used for years to come.

Things You'll Need

• Picture Bible
• Tape measure
• Assorted fabrics
• Decorative rope
• Scissors
• Sandals
• Bathrobe
• Decorative boxes

Instructions

1. Look through a picture Bible to get an idea of what the Nativity clothes should look like. Most Bibles will have Mary dressed in blue and white while Joesph is dressed in brown. The Wise Men and shepherds will vary.

2. Measure each actor from the base of the neck to the ankle. Write the number down and convert to yards. Remember 1 yard equals 3 feet.

3. Purchase your fabrics. Go to any local fabric (or possibly hobby) store and order your fabric. Double the number of yards of fabric for each person. For example, if you are a yard and a half from neck to ankle, you will order 3 yards. For Mary's headpiece you only need 1 yard of white material.

4. Fold each piece of fabric (except for the white piece) in half and cut a hole in the center for your head to go through.

5. Slip on the fabric and tie a piece of decorative rope around your middle. Put on your sandals. You now have your basic Nativity costume. Add props like crooks and bathrobes (if you are a shepherd). The Wise Men should be carrying decorative boxes for their gifts.

6. Sew up the sides of Mary's costume from the ankles to the just above the waist. This will create arm holes. Place the yard of white fabric over her head (the edge of the fabric at her hairline) to perfect Mary's look.

References

• Bible Costumes