Go Back
Christmas Paper Plate Nativity Craft with FREE Template
Print

Christmas Paper Plate Nativity Craft with FREE Template

Bring the meaning of Christmas to craft time with this paper plate nativity craft for kids using the FREE template to keep things simple. It's the perfect way to remember Jesus during Christmas.
Keyword: Christmas, Craft

Materials

  • 2 Paper Plates
  • Craft paint (blue in 2 shades, tan, white, and brown)
  • Paintbrush
  • FREE Craft Template (download below)
  • Popsicle sticks (optional for puppet craft)
  • Glue or stapler

Instructions

  • 1. Paint the Background
    Start by transforming one of the paper plates into a beautiful backdrop for your nativity scene:
    Use dark blue paint to cover the upper portion of the plate, creating the night sky. Add light blue paint near the bottom of the plate to represent the horizon.
    Paint the bottom of the plate tan to mimic the ground.
    Once the paint is dry, use white paint to add dots in the sky for stars. A toothbrush or a fine paintbrush can make this step super fun!
  • 2. Cut out and Paint the Stable
    Next, create the stable where baby Jesus will rest:
    Take the second paper plate and carefully cut out the center, leaving the rim intact. This will form the stable’s frame.
    Paint the top section of the stable dark blue, the middle section light blue, and the bottom section tan for a cohesive look. Use brown paint to decorate the sides of the rim, mimicking the wooden beams of a stable.
  • 3. Assemble the Nativity Scene
    Now, it’s time to bring the nativity together:
    Glue or staple the rim of the stable plate onto the background plate. Align the plates so that the stable sits prominently in the scene.
    If you’re making a puppet version, leave an opening at the bottom where children can move baby Jesus within the nativity scene.
  • 4. Add the Characters
    Bring the story to life with Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus. Use the FREE printable template to trace and cut out the pieces for each character.
    Color or paint the characters, adding details like Mary’s blue robe, Joseph’s brown cloak, and baby Jesus in white swaddling clothes.
    Glue Mary and Joseph onto the background plate on either side of the stable.
    Add baby Jesus to the center, either glueing him in place or attaching him to a popsicle stick for an interactive puppet element.
  • Optional Puppet Craft
    Make the craft even more engaging by turning it into a puppet play:
    Attach popsicle sticks to the backs of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. Slide the popsicle sticks through the opening you left in the plates, allowing kids to move the characters around as they retell the story of Jesus’s birth.

Notes

Ways to Use Your Paper Plate Nativity Craft

The finished craft is more than just a decoration—it’s a versatile activity:
  • Holiday Decor: Hang it on the wall, display it on a mantle, or use it as a table centerpiece.
  • Gifts: Share these handmade nativity crafts with family members or as thoughtful gifts for teachers or Sunday school leaders.
  • Interactive Learning: Use the puppet version to act out the nativity story, making Bible lessons more engaging.