I got so many comments about the Nativity blocks that I posted about, that I thought I'd write a post about how to make them. I have to start with a disclaimer: I can't find my instructions, so I have to go make them up. We started with blocks that were already cut, so I measured them and you'll need:
From a 2X3:
5 blocks cut 2 inches long and 7 blocks cut 3 1/2 inches long.
From a 2X4:
3 blocks cut 3 inches long.
Either bevel or sand the edges and any other rough spots.
Next, you paint the blocks with a cream acrylic paint. (Make sure it isn't a washable one, since it takes FOREVER to dry...we found that out the hard way.) Let the paint dry. Sand the edges a little if you'd like a bit of a worn look.
Either stain them or thin some brown acrylic paint. Paint it on and rub it off as if it were stain. (I used paint and I really like the effect. Plus, I didn't have to deal with an oil-based stain all over my hands...though you could use gloves.)
Our instructions had us put the stickers on before staining, but that makes it so that there isn't stain under them, only white. And, some stain creeps under them. It looks a lot better if you stain them first.
After the paint/stain dries, apply the stickers. Some of the blocks will have to be turned on their sides to fit the larger stickers. The camels and the horse will go on the blocks made from the 2X4. The baby Jesus sticker just barely fits, so you may need to make sure the edges are down and around the block before you seal it.
The last step is to coat the blocks with a clear protectant.
The manger is made from a CD crate that's made to be customized. Michael's sells them.
The stickers are called "Nativity Kids" by Me & My Big Ideas. The only website I can find them at is Treasured Memories. I know there are others.
I hope that helps! If you have any questions, just ask!!
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