How to Create a Crown of Thorns

Create a crown of thorns for an Easter play.

The crown of thorns placed on Jesus' head at his crucifixion is a symbol of the suffering he endured so Christians can have their sins forgiven. During the Easter season, the crown of thorns is used in plays, in object lessons or as a decoration or craft. You do not need to buy a crown of thorns; instead, you can easily create one on your own at home.

Things You'll Need

• Rose bush limbs
• Gardening shears
• Gloves
• Hammer
• Twist tie

Instructions

1. Gather together three rose bush limbs of equal length, about two feet long. Use a pair of gardening shears and gloves to avoid a nasty prick.

2. Lay the branches side by side. Use a hammer to flatten 1/4 inch at the top and bottom of each branch. Cross the flattened tops together. Use a garbage bag twist tie to twist and hold the three branches together at the top.

3. Braid the three rose branches together loosely by crisscrossing the two side branches around the center one.

4. Pull the two ends together to make a circle. Use another twist tie to hold the ends together. Trim any excess from the twist ties. Let the crown of thorns sit in the sun and dry out until it has the traditional crown of thorns look.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use more then three rose branches if you choose; this using more branches will create a more full-looking crown of thorns.

References

• Grace Communion International; John 19; Crowned with Thorns
• Sunday School Resources: Jesus Died on the Cross