Image Source from kaschlitter

Create a No-Sew Nativity Costume in 10 Minutes: A Guide for All Major Characters

As the festive season approaches, many schools and churches often put on nativity plays, offering a wonderful opportunity for children to engage in the story of Christmas. If you’re pressed for time and in need of a nativity costume, fear not! With just a few materials, you can whip up no-sew costumes for most nativity characters in just 10 minutes. Here’s how to create simple yet effective costumes for Mary, Joseph, the Angel, and the Shepherd.

Materials You Will Need

• Large pieces of fabric (Cotton sheets or tablecloths work well; choose blue for Mary, brown for Joseph, and white for the Angel or Shepherd)
• Brown belt or rope for cinching
• Safety pins to secure the fabric
• Scissors to cut fabric if necessary
• Tinsel or cardboard star for the Angel’s headpiece
• Comfortable shoes; sandals are ideal but any simple shoes will do

Mary’s Costume

1. Choose the Fabric: Start with a blue sheet or fabric piece.
2. Drape the Fabric: Wrap the fabric around your child’s body, leaving one side open for easier movement. Ensure the fabric is long enough to touch the ground.
3. Secure the Wrap: Pin the fabric at the shoulder to hold it in place. You can fold over the top to create a "cape" effect.
4. Add a Belt: Use a brown belt or a piece of rope to cinch the waist.
5. Headpiece: Use a smaller piece of blue fabric or a scarf to make a simple head covering, wrapping it around the head and securing it with safety pins or by tucking it in.

Joseph’s Costume

1. Fabric Selection: Choose a brown sheet or fabric.
2. Drape and Wrap: Like Mary’s, wrap the fabric around the body. This time, you can create an open front to allow for ease of movement.
3. Secure It: Use safety pins at the shoulder or belt it at the waist with a brown rope.
4. Headpiece: Similar to Mary, use a piece of brown fabric for a head covering. Drape it over the head and secure with pins.

The Angel’s Costume

1. Fabric Choice: Opt for a white sheet or fabric.
2. Drape the Fabric: Drape the fabric over the shoulders and let it flow down to the ground.
3. Secure It: Pin the fabric at the shoulders to create a simple toga-style dress.
4. Belt It: Add a golden or brown belt around the waist to help shape the dress.
5. Create the Halo: Fashion a halo using tinsel or make a simple headband with a cardboard star attached to it, which can be placed on the head.

The Shepherd’s Costume

1. Fabric Selection: Use a light brown or checkered fabric for a rustic look.
2. Drape and Wrap: Wrap the fabric around the body, allowing for a free-flowing look.
3. Use of Safety Pins: Pin the fabric at the shoulders or waist for a snug fit.
4. Belt It Up: Use a rope belt to give definition.
5. Headwear: Create a shepherd’s headpiece with a scarf or small piece of cloth, wrapping it around the head.

Finishing Touches

• Footwear: Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes—sandals or simple flats are best.
• Props: Consider adding props to enhance the costumes: Mary can hold a doll, Joseph can have a staff made from a sturdy stick, the Angel could carry a star, and the Shepherd can bring a plush sheep.

Conclusion

Preparing for a nativity play doesn’t have to be a hassle. With these simple no-sew costume ideas, you can create charming and suitable attire for the major characters of the nativity story in just 10 minutes. Gather your materials, follow the steps, and soon, your children will be ready to tell the beautiful tale of Christmas!