Last year, we made Take Along Mangers during a celebration on the Feast of St. Nicholas. We've been going through a bit of a miniatures phase this year, so it seemed only natural to recreate our mangers for the 2007 gathering, only smaller!
We started with small baskets and babies (from the favors section in the craft store--perfect for crafting with a crowd because they are sold in multi packs), ribbon, roses, lace, and moss:
The children lined their wee baskets with moss:
And wrapped the babes in lace for simple "swaddling clothes." Blue ribbon and flowers add a pretty touch in honor of the Newborn King:
Even three-year-old Maureen was able to make her own lovely manger:
Ten-year-old Margaret added sparkly trim and candy canes, making this an eye-catching ornament for our tree:
We had so many materials on hand, I encouraged the children to make as many ornaments as they liked. This beautiful young friend made three, so she would have one or two to decorate her dollhouse:
Suggestion for a Variation: These mangers would also make beautiful "Baby's First Christmas" ornaments, particularly with a change of trim and the names and years written on the side or handle. If you are anything like me and do not have these for all your children, this would make a welcome Christmas surprise.
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