Popsicle Stick–Peg Doll - Nativity Scene.

I found this idea (below) online http://artwifeneedsalife.blogspot.com/2011/12/adventures-in-christmas-ornaments.html

………. and then fiddle-farted with it to suit the bits and pieces that I already had in my craft drawers.

The stable took a total of 9 small craft sticks and two thinner ones on the back to help keep the whole thing together.

I wish I could remember where I originally bought the crafts sticks from because they are such a  brilliant size, measuring 2.5ins x x .5ins.  I’ve had them for quite a while and they would have only cost me a £1 or so for the pack. 

It’s taken me quite a while to get round to using them, but now I have realised their potential, naturally I wanted more, but since we’re in lockdown it meant spending a long time pouring online until I was able to track them down on Amazon, this time they were considerably more expensive, £7.89 for 100, and I can see me wanting more! 

Using one for a shelf was a genius idea, thank you ArtWife and opens up so many other possibilities.

The little peg people came from China (eBay) last year, costing £3.99 inc. P & P  for 40 figures, 20 male and 20 female which was a bargain, considering I have paid £1 for six from The Works.

Coming up with Baby Jesus was my own idea ……….

……. using a 5mm, natural wooden bead, stuck on the end of a cut down cotton bud and then carefully wrapped in a scrap of paper tissue.

…… with an added layer of PVA glue to stop it unfurling. While the tissue was slightly damp I was able shape it round the baby’s face with a pin.

I was in two minds whether to colour the figures and or add some colour to the stable, but in the end decided to just leave it au naturel, the hollow star just finishes the whole effect.

In order to hang them on the Christmas tree I have added a small silver bail to the back and will add thread later.

I have made nine of this pared down version, but now curiosity is getting the better of me and I think I need to make a few more now with some element of colour.