Christmas Nativity Scene

with Mrs. Cackett's Grade 1

This is a great project and gift for parents at Christmas.  It takes some preparation and can be complicated, but it is worth it.  This Nativity Scene is a Plaster of Paris relief.

Materials:

clay
6"pie plates
rolling pin, or dowel
Plaster of Paris
stones, popsicles, other interesting items for the relief
paper clips

Procedure

1. Roll the clay as smooth as possible about 10cm (1/2 inch) thick. Put in a pie plate like a pie.

2.  Using the stones and other tools make imprints of  Mary, Joseph, Jesus, manger, star and the stable.  Keep in mind that wherever you make an imprint into the clay, when you pour the plaster it will be sticking out.  If you want something recessed you have to build up the clay.  The shapes have to simple and fairly big.  Thin lines do not work.  Mark the top of the plate.

3.  Make the plaster by pouring water into a bucket.  You add plaster slowly into the bucket until a volcano type hill peeks through the water.  Pour mixture into pie plate.  Let sit overnight.  Take off the clay, the colour of the clay will add a texture to the picture.