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Nativity Crochet Amigurumi Pattern

Nativity Crochet Amigurumi Pattern
4.6β˜… Rating
12-15 Hours Time Needed
1.2K Made This
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Intermediate Level

Ideal for those with basic crochet experience, featuring slightly more advanced stitches and techniques to expand your skills.

⏱️

Multi-Day Project

A rewarding 12+ hour journeyβ€”perfect for dedicated crafters who love detailed work.

🧸

Cute Companion

An adorable friend to cherish, handcrafted with love to bring comfort and joy for years to come.

About This Nativity Crochet Amigurumi Pattern

This pattern creates a full nativity amigurumi set with Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, three wise men, a shepherd, an angel, a lamb and a manger. Each figure is built from small round and row-based pieces with clear stitch counts and helpful assembly notes. You will learn how to add beards, hair curls, head coverings, and a textured β€˜hay’ effect for the manger.

Nativity Crochet Amigurumi Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

The pattern uses common worsted yarns, a size E (3.5 mm) hook, and safety eyes to achieve tidy, durable figures. Detailed photos in the PDF show placement and finishing for authentic, balanced results.

Why You'll Love This Nativity Crochet Amigurumi Pattern

I absolutely love this pattern because it brings a full nativity scene to life with surprisingly simple building blocks. I enjoy how each figure shares the same basic head and body structure, making it easy to adapt colors and details for variety. The little finishing touchesβ€”beards, curls, and the hay in the mangerβ€”are so satisfying and add real character to the set. Working through the set feels like a series of small wins as each figure is completed and assembled.

Nativity Crochet Amigurumi Pattern step 1 - construction progress Nativity Crochet Amigurumi Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Nativity Crochet Amigurumi Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Nativity Crochet Amigurumi Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love to customize colors and trims to give each figure a different personality β€” try pale pastels for a softer set or jewel tones for a festive look.

Change yarn weight and hook size to alter finished sizes; bulky yarn with a larger hook creates chunky, huggable figures while fingering weight will make tiny, precious minis.

I often replace safety eyes with embroidered eyes for a fully soft toy version that is child-safe and sweetly stylized.

Swap beards and hair colors to invent new characters or to make gender-neutral figures β€” a simple change of yarn shade can transform the whole set.

Use metallic or variegated yarn for crowns and gifts to add sparkle and visual interest without extra sewing or embellishments.

For posable accessories, insert a thin piece of craft wire into the staff or arms before covering with single crochet so it bends and holds shape.

Try adding buttons, tiny felt appliques, or embroidered motifs on tunics to make each wise man unique and collectible.

I sometimes make a travel-sized version by using sport weight yarn and a 2.5 mm hook so the set fits inside a small box for gifting.

Experiment with different eye placements and mouth embroidery to change the expression from serene to surprised β€” tiny adjustments make big emotional differences.

Don't be afraid to mix brands and textures; combining a smooth base yarn with a fuzzy accent yarn for hair or hay creates lovely contrast and depth.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

βœ— Skipping stitch markers during continuous rounds will make counting and placing features difficult; place a marker at the start of each round and move it after you complete the round to stay aligned. βœ— Not inserting the mesh screen at the base of the body can cause the figure to slump and not stand properly; cut and insert the plastic craft screen around the specified rounds before adding full stuffing. βœ— Stuffing too much early in shaping can distort features and make seams hard to close; stuff gradually and add small amounts to keep the shape smooth. βœ— Changing colors without weaving tails securely will leave visible loose ends; weave in tails or tie and bury ends using a yarn needle as you change colors. βœ— Forgetting to pin parts before sewing can lead to uneven placement; always pin head, arms, and accessories in place and check symmetry before final stitching.

Nativity Crochet Amigurumi Pattern

Create a charming handcrafted nativity scene with this complete crochet amigurumi pattern. You will make Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, three wise men, shepherd, angel, lamb, and a manger with clear step-by-step instructions. The pattern uses small amounts of standard yarn and simple shaping to produce adorable figures ideal for gifting or seasonal displays. Follow the detailed rounds and assembly notes to build your own miniature nativity set.

Intermediate 12-15 Hours

Materials Needed for Nativity Crochet Amigurumi Pattern

β€” Main Fabric

  • 01
    Linen - Vanna's Choice "Linen" (less than 1 skein)
  • 02
    Beige - Vanna's Choice "Beige" (less than 1 skein)
  • 03
    Black - Vanna's Choice "Black" (small amount for embroidery; less than 1 skein)
  • 04
    White - Vanna's Choice "White" (less than 1 skein)
  • 05
    Gold - Vanna's Choice "Mustard" (less than 1 skein)
  • 06
    Light brown - Loops & Threads Impeccable "Soft Taupe" (less than 1 skein)
  • 07
    Medium Brown - Vanna's Choice "Toffee" (less than 1 skein)
  • 08
    Dark Brown - Vanna's Choice "Chocolate" (less than 1 skein)
  • 09
    Red - Loops & Threads Impeccable "Cherry" (less than 1 skein)
  • 10
    Green - Vanna's Choice "Kelly Green" (less than 1 skein)
  • 11
    Orange - Vanna's Choice "Terracotta" (less than 1 skein)
  • 12
    Light Blue - Vanna's Choice "Silver Blue" (less than 1 skein)
  • 13
    Dark Blue - Vanna's Choice "Colonial Blue" (less than 1 skein)
  • 14
    Light Purple - Loops & Threads Impeccable "Lavender" (less than 1 skein)
  • 15
    Dark Purple - brand and color unknown (small amount)
  • 16
    Gray - Vanna's Choice "Silver Gray" (less than 1 skein)

β€” Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook size E (3.5 mm)
  • 02
    Yarn needle
  • 03
    Safety eyes - 10 pairs of 6mm
  • 04
    Black embroidery thread
  • 05
    Scissors
  • 06
    Polyester stuffing
  • 07
    Plastic craft screen (about 2" diameter circles)
  • 08
    Brown pipe cleaner (for staff)
  • 09
    Stitch markers
  • 10
    Pins for assembly

Progress Tracker

0% Complete

β€” Joseph :

Head :

R1: Using light brown, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6)

Round 2 :

R2: 2 sc in each st around. (12)

Round 3 :

R3: (Sc, 2 sc) 6x around. (18)

Round 4 :

R4: (Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (24)

Round 5 :

R5: (Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (30)

Round 6-9 :

R6-R9: Sc in each st around. (30)

Round 10 :

R10: (Sc in next 3 sts, invdec) 6x around. (24)

Round 11 :

R11: (Sc in next 2 sts, invdec) 6x around. (18)

Round 12 :

R12: (Sc, invdec) 6x around. (12)

Infos :

Attach the safety eyes between rows 7 and 8, about 6 sts apart. Using light brown yarn and a yarn needle, stitch repeatedly over the sc mid-way between the eyes so the yarn bumps up like a nose. Use a pink crayon to make rosy cheeks. Then stuff the head.

Round 13 :

R13: Sc2tog around until closed. Fasten off, using yarn tail to pull final stitches completely shut.

β€” Body :

Info :

Note: For Joseph's body and others in this pattern, you will see that I use plastic mesh screens (available at craft stores) at the base of the body. The screen keeps the base from rounding as you add stuffing, making the figures stand more easily on their own. You'll need to cut a circle about 2" in diameter to fit.

Round 1 :

R1: Using linen, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6)

Round 2 :

R2: 2 sc in each st around. (12)

Round 3 :

R3: (Sc, 2 sc) 6x around. (18)

Round 4 :

R4: (Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (24)

Round 5 :

R5: (Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (30)

Round 6 :

R6: (Sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (36)

Round 7 :

R7: In back loops only, sc in each st around.

Round 8-11 :

R8-R11: Sc in each st around, insert mesh screen.

Round 12 :

R12: (Sc in next 4 sts, invdec) 6x around. (30)

Round 13-16 :

R13-R16: Sc in each st around, begin stuffing as you go.

Round 17 :

R17: (Sc in next 3 sts, invdec) 6x around. (24)

Round 18-20 :

R18-R20: Sc in each st around.

Round 21 :

R21: (Sc in next 2 sts, invdec) 6x around. (18)

Round 22-24 :

R22-R24: Sc in each st around.

Round 25 :

R25: (Sc, invdec) 6x around. (12)

Round 26 :

R26: Sc in each st around.

Info :

Fasten off, leaving tail long enough to sew head and body together. Stuff body completely, then match up with head and attach.

β€” Arms (make two) :

Info :

Stuff lightly as you go.

Round 1 :

R1: Using light brown, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6)

Round 2 :

R2: (Sc, 2 sc) 3x around. (9)

Round 3 :

R3: Sc in each st around, switch to linen.

Round 4 :

R4: In front loops only, sc in each st around.

Round 5-9 :

R5-R9: Sc in each st around.

Round 10 :

R10: (Sc, invdec) 3x around. (6)

Round 11-12 :

R11-R12: Sc in each st around.

Info :

Fasten off, leaving long tail. Stuff more if necessary. I bend the arm gently into a curve, then sew shut. Attach to the sides of the body as pictured.

β€” Beard :

Info :

Using dark brown, ch 16.

Round 1 :

R1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each st across. Ch 1. Turn. (15)

Round 2 :

R2: Sc in first 2 sts, hdc in next 2 sts, dc in next st, tr in next 5 sts, dc in next st, hdc in next 2 sts, sc in last 2 sts. Ch 1. Turn

Round 3 :

R3: Sc in each st across. Ch 1. Turn

Round 4 :

R4: Sc in first 6 sts, ch 3, skip 3 sts, sc in last 6 sts.

Info :

Fasten off, leaving tail for attaching. You should have a tail on each end of the beard from the beginning chain and from fastening off. Pin beard into place, then use these tails to secure the sides of the beard as pictured. Then, sew across the top of the beard, keeping stitches even under the nose.

β€” Tunic :

Info :

Using green, ch 21.

Round 1 :

R1: Sc in 2nd st from hook and in each ch across. Ch 1. Turn. (20)

Round 2-4 :

R2-R4: Sc in each st across. Ch 1. Turn.

Round 5 :

R5: Sc2tog, sc in next 16 sts, sc2tog. Ch 1. Turn. (18)

Round 6-8 :

R6-R8: Sc in each st across.

Round 9 :

R9: Sc2tog, sc in next 14 sts, sc2tog. Ch 1. Turn. (16)

Round 10-12 :

R10-R12: Sc in each st across.

Round 13 :

R13: Sl st in first 3 sts, sc in next 10 sts. Ch 1. Turn (skipping last 3 sts).

Round 14-17 :

R14-R17: Sc in next 10 sts. Ch 1. Turn. You now have the back section of the tunic.

Info :

As you begin Row 18 you'll be making the portion of the tunic that will go over one shoulder.

Round 18-22 :

R18-R22: Sc in next 2 sts. Ch 1. Turn. (2)

Round 23 :

R23: Sc, 2 sc. Ch 1. Turn. (3)

Round 24 :

R24: 2 sc, sc, 2 sc. Ch 1. Turn. (5)

Round 25-26 :

R25-R26: Sc in each st across.

Round 27 :

R27: 2 sc, sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc. (7)

Round 28-34 :

R28-R34: Sc in each st across.

Info :

Fasten off, leaving long tail. Now you have the back and one side of the tunic finished.

Info :

To make the other side, attach yarn to the other side of Row 17 as pictured. Then repeat instructions for rows 18-34, making the other side of the tunic. Sc around what will be the inside edge of the tunic - up one side, around the back of the neck, and down the other side. Weave in all ends.

Info :

Place around Joseph's shoulders and stitch sides together. To make belt, ch 50 with dark brown yarn, fasten off and weave in ends. Tie around waist. Secure with a few stitches around.

β€” Head covering :

Round 1 :

R1: Using linen, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6)

Round 2 :

R2: 2 sc in each st around. (12)

Round 3 :

R3: (Sc, 2 sc) 6x around. (18)

Round 4 :

R4: (Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (24)

Round 5 :

R5: (Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (30)

Round 6-8 :

R6-R8: Sc in each st around. You will now begin working in rows around just part of the circular shape to extend the head covering down.

Infos :

From where you are, ch1 and turn the work.

Round 9 :

R9: Sc in each of the next 20 sts across. Ch 1. Turn.

Round 10-26 :

R10-R26: Repeat Row 9, turning after each row. Attach to head by stitching around with linen yarn and yarn needle. To make border, ch 30 using green. Wrap around head covering and secure using yarn needle.

β€” Mary :

Head :

R1: Using light brown, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6)

Round 2 :

R2: 2 sc in each st around. (12)

Round 3 :

R3: (Sc, 2 sc) 6x around. (18)

Round 4 :

R4: (Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (24)

Round 5 :

R5: (Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (30)

Round 6-9 :

R6-R9: Sc in each st around. (30)

Round 10 :

R10: (Sc in next 3 sts, invdec) 6x around. (24)

Round 11 :

R11: (Sc in next 2 sts, invdec) 6x around. (18)

Round 12 :

R12: (Sc, invdec) 6x around. (12)

Infos :

Attach the safety eyes between rows 7 and 8, about 6 sts apart. Using black embroidery thread, stitch 2-3 eyelashes on the outside corners of both eyes as pictured. Using light brown yarn and a yarn needle, stitch repeatedly over the sc mid-way between the eyes so the yarn bumps up like a little nose. Use a pink crayon to make rosy cheeks. Then stuff the head.

Round 13 :

R13: Sc2tog around until closed. Fasten off, using yarn tail to pull final stitches completely shut.

β€” Mary Body :

Round 1 :

R1: Using light blue, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6)

Round 2 :

R2: 2 sc in each st around. (12)

Round 3 :

R3: (Sc, 2 sc) 6x around. (18)

Round 4 :

R4: (Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (24)

Round 5 :

R5: (Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (30)

Round 6 :

R6: (Sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (36)

Round 7 :

R7: In back loops only, sc in each st around.

Round 8-10 :

R8-R10: Sc in each st around, insert mesh screen.

Round 11 :

R11: (Sc in next 4 sts, invdec) 6x around. (30)

Round 12-15 :

R12-R15: Sc in each st around, begin stuffing as you go.

Round 16 :

R16: (Sc in next 3 sts, invdec) 6x around. (24)

Round 17-19 :

R17-R19: Sc in each st around.

Round 20 :

R20: (Sc in next 2 sts, invdec) 6x around. (18)

Round 21-23 :

R21-R23: Sc in each st around.

Round 24 :

R24: (Sc, invdec) 6x around. (12)

Round 25 :

R25: Sc in each st around.

Info :

Fasten off, leaving tail long enough to sew head and body together. Stuff body, then match up with head and attach.

β€” Mary Hair :

Info :

To make Mary's hair, first you'll make and attach a few curls that will show from the front. Then you'll use a yarn needle to sew on "bangs". Mary will look a little odd but when her head covering is attached it will look right.

Curly Section :

Using dark brown, ch 20. 2 hdc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across (will begin to curl into loose spiral). Make four and pin in place as pictured, then use yarn tails to attach. If you'd like to add more curls to the back you can.

Bangs :

Use yarn needle and long length of brown yarn to stitch "bangs." At the center point of the forehead, sew multiple strands to each side of Mary's face as pictured.

β€” Mary Head covering :

Round 1 :

R1: Using dark blue, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6)

Round 2 :

R2: 2 sc in each st around. (12)

Round 3 :

R3: (Sc, 2 sc) 6x around. (18)

Round 4 :

R4: (Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (24)

Round 5 :

R5: (Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (30)

Round 6-7 :

R6-R7: sc in each st around. You will now begin working in rows around just part of the circular shape to extend the head covering down.

Infos :

From where you are, ch1 and turn the work.

Round 8 :

R8: Sc in each of the next 20 sts across. Ch 1. Turn.

Round 9-28 :

R9-R28: Repeat Row 8, turning after each row. To finish the edges, sc up the side where your last row ended, across the top, and down the other side. Fasten off, weaving in ends. Using dark blue yarn and a yarn needle, attach the head covering by stitching around the top of the head.

β€” Baby Jesus :

Head :

R1: Using light brown, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6)

Round 2 :

R2: 2 sc in each st around. (12)

Round 3 :

R3: (Sc, 2 sc) 6x around. (18)

Round 4 :

R4: (Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (24)

Round 5-8 :

R5-R8: Sc in each st around.

Round 9 :

R9: (Sc in next 2 sts, invdec) 6x around. (18)

Round 10 :

R10: (Sc, invdec) 6x around. (12)

Info :

Using black embroidery thread, stitch two curves for closed eyes (YouTube has great tutorials if you'd like to learn more about embroidering a curved line). Alternatively, you could attach safety eyes between rows 5 and 6, about 3 sts apart. Using light brown yarn and a yarn needle, stitch repeatedly over the sc mid-way between the eyes so the yarn bumps up like a little nose. Use a pink crayon to make rosy cheeks. Then stuff the head.

Round 11 :

R11: Sc2tog around until closed. Fasten off, using yarn tail to pull final stitches completely shut.

β€” Baby Jesus Body :

Round 1 :

R1: Using white, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6)

Round 2 :

R2: 2 sc in each st around. (12)

Round 3 :

R3: (Sc, 2 sc) 6x around. (18)

Round 4 :

R4: Sc in each st around.

Round 5 :

R5: (Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (24)

Round 6-12 :

R6-R12: Sc in each st around.

Round 13 :

R13: (Sc in next 2 sts, invdec) 6x around. (18)

Round 14 :

R14: Sc in each st around.

Round 15 :

R15: In back loops only, (sc, sc2tog) 6x around. (12)

Info :

Slip stitch to fasten off, leaving long tail. To add "seams", ch 35. Pull yarn through and cut, leaving long tail. Sew onto body as pictured, starting at the mid-point of the body, wrapping around the back, and then down at a diagonal angle. Then, stuff body, match up with head, and attach.

β€” Manger :

Info :

To make the base/top, using medium brown, ch 24.

Round 1 :

R1: Hdc in 3rd chain from hook and in each ch across. Ch 2. Turn. (22)

Round 2-9 :

R2-R9: Hdc in each st across. Ch 2. Turn. Fasten off, weaving in ends. Make two.

Info :

To make the long sides, ch 22.

Round 1 :

R1: Hdc in 3rd chain from hook and in each ch across (20), ch 2, turn

Round 2-23 :

R2-R23: Hdc in each st across (20), ch 2, turn. Fasten off, weaving in ends. Make two.

Info :

To make the short sides, ch 12.

Round 1 :

R1: Hdc in 3rd chain from hook and in each ch across. Ch 2. Turn. (10)

Round 2-3 :

R2-R3: Hdc in each st across. Ch 2. Turn. Fasten off, weaving in ends. Make two.

Info :

To make manger, use a yarn needle to attach the long and short sides to the base so you have a box shape. Then, stuff lightly and attach the top around each edge.

Info :

To add "hay", first cut a number of lengths of gold yarn, approximately 5" long. Fold strands in half, and using your crochet hook as pictured, pull yarn through stitches as shown. You'll do this in layers, beginning by hooking yarn in a rectangle shape as pictured, again in a smaller rectangle, and then hooking yarn again from the middle of the manger. Once you think you have enough "hay", trim up the ends to the length you desire (warning: this is a bit of a yarn eater!).

β€” Wise Man 1 :

Head :

Using dark brown, follow the instructions for Joseph's head, rounds 1-13.

Body :

Using purple, follow the instructions for Rounds 1-7 of Joseph's body. Then continue as follows:

Round 8 :

R8: Sc in each st around, switch to gold. (36)

Round 9-10 :

R9-R10: Sc in each st around, switch back to purple.

Round 11 :

R11: Sc in each st around, insert mesh screen.

Round 12 :

R12: (Sc in next 4 sts, invdec) 6x around, switch to gold. (30)

Round 13-14 :

R13-R14: Sc in each st around, switch back to purple.

Round 15-16 :

R15-R16: Sc in each st around, begin stuffing as you go.

Round 17 :

R17: (Sc in next 3 sts, invdec) 6x around. (24)

Round 18-20 :

R18-R20: Sc in each st around.

Round 21 :

R21: (Sc in next 2 sts, invdec) 6x around. (18)

Round 22-24 :

R22-R24: Sc in each st around.

Round 25 :

R25: (Sc, invdec) 6x around. (12)

Round 26 :

R26: Sc in each st around.

Info :

Fasten off, leaving tail long enough to sew head and body together. Stuff body, then match up with head and attach.

Beard :

Using white, follow directions for Joseph's beard. Attach as instructed.

Arms (make two) :

Stuff lightly as you go.

Round 1 :

R1: Using dark brown, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6)

Round 2 :

R2: (Sc, 2 sc) 3x around. (9)

Round 3 :

R3: Sc in each st around, switch to gold.

Round 4 :

R4: In front loops only, sc in each st around.

Round 5 :

R5: Sc in each st around, switch to purple.

Round 6-9 :

R6-R9: Sc in each st around.

Round 10 :

R10: (Sc, invdec) 3x around. (6)

Round 11-12 :

R11-R12: Sc in each st around.

Info :

Fasten off, leaving long tail. Attach to body.

Head Covering :

Use light purple, sc 6 into a magic ring and follow Joseph's head covering instructions for shape. Attach crown or border as preferred.

Gift :

R1: Using gray, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6) R2: 2 sc in each st around. (12) R3-R6: Sc in each st around. R7: Sc2tog around until closed. Fasten off, leaving long tail. Cutting another length of yarn, tie two knots together and sew to the top of the gift. Then use yarn tail to sew gift to hands.

β€” Wise Man 2 :

Head :

Using light brown, follow the instructions for Joseph's head, rounds 1-13.

Body :

Using red, follow the instructions for Rounds 1-10 of Joseph's body. Then continue as follows:

Round 11 :

R11: Switch to gold, sc in each st around, insert mesh screen. (36)

Round 12 :

R12: (Sc in next 4 sts, invdec) 6x around. (30)

Round 13 :

R13: Sc in each st around, switch back to red.

Round 14-16 :

R14-R16: Sc in each st around, begin stuffing as you go.

Round 17 :

R17: (Sc in next 3 sts, invdec) 6x around. (24)

Round 18-20 :

R18-R20: Sc in each st around.

Round 21 :

R21: (Sc in next 2 sts, invdec) 6x around. (18)

Round 22-24 :

R22-R24: Sc in each st around.

Round 25 :

R25: (Sc, invdec) 6x around. (12)

Round 26 :

R26: Sc in each st around.

Info :

Fasten off, leaving tail long enough to sew head and body together. Stuff body, then match up with head and attach.

Beard :

Using dark brown, follow directions for Joseph's beard. Attach as instructed.

Arms :

Use instructions for Joseph's arms with colors: R3 switch to gold, etc. Fasten off, leaving long tail. Attach to body.

Head Covering :

Using red, follow directions for Rows 1-7 of Joseph's head covering. From where you are, switch to orange yarn, ch1 and turn the work. R8: Sc in each of the next 20 sts across. Ch 1. Turn. R9-R25: Repeat Row 8, turning after each row. Fasten off, weaving in ends. Using red yarn and a yarn needle, attach the head covering by stitching around the top of the head.

Crown :

Using gold, ch 32. Slip stitch in first chain to form a ring. R1: Sc in each ch around. (32) R2: (Sl st, ch 3, then [sc, hdc] back down the ch 3, sk 2 sts, sl st) 8x around. Fasten off, leaving long tail to attach. Use yarn needle to sew crown evenly around head covering.

Gift :

Using orange, repeat the directions for the gift from Wise Man #1.

β€” Wise Man 3 :

Head :

Using medium brown, follow the instructions for Joseph's head, rounds 1-13.

Body :

Using gold, follow the instructions for Joseph's body. Switch to dark blue at round 11 and continue following instructions through round 26. Attach head to body.

Beard :

Using gray, follow instructions for Joseph's beard and attach as instructed.

β€” Wise Men (common assembly notes) :

Info :

For each wise man, follow the head/body/arm instructions and color changes listed above. Insert mesh screen at the base as indicated and begin stuffing when instructed. Attach beards and crowns or head coverings as pictured and secure gifts to hands with yarn tails.

β€” Shepherd :

Head :

Using beige, follow instructions for Joseph's head, rounds 1-13.

Body :

Using medium brown, follow instructions for Mary's body. Attach body to head.

Arms :

Using beige, then medium brown, follow instructions for Joseph's arms. Attach to body.

Head covering :

Using light brown, follow instructions for Joseph's head covering. Use dark brown for border.

Belt :

Ch 50, fasten off and weave in ends. Tie around waist. Secure with a few stitches around with yarn needle and dark brown yarn if desired.

Staff :

Cut a brown pipe cleaner to 6" in length. Sc around the length of the pipe cleaner. Fasten off, weave in ends. Bend into a curve.

β€” Angel :

Head :

Using beige, follow directions for Mary's head.

Body :

Using white, follow directions for Mary's body. Attach head to body.

Arms :

Follow the directions for Mary's arms, using beige for the hands and white for the remainder of each arm. Attach securely as pictured.

Hair :

Using gold, first make a hair cap as follows: R1: Sc 6 into a magic ring. (6) R2: 2 sc in each st around. (12) R3: (Sc, 2 sc) 6x around. (18) R4: (Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (24) R5: (Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc) 6x around (30) R6-9: Sc in each st around. Fasten off, leaving long tail. Use yarn needle to attach hair cap to angel's hair.

Bun :

Then make a bun as follows: R1: Sc 6 into a magic ring. (6) R2: 2 sc in each st around. (12) R3: (Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc) 3x around. (15) R4-R5: Sc in each st around. Fasten off, leaving long tail. Use yarn needle to attach bun to hair cap (stuff a bit as you attach).

Bangs :

Using a yarn needle, sew gold yarn around angel's hairline as pictured. Draw needle up through the center of hairline and to each side repeatedly.

Wings (make two) :

Using light blue, chain 7. R1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. Ch 1. Turn. (6) R2: Sc in first 2 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts. Ch 3. Turn. (9) R3: Sc in 2 ch sts (work into them as you would into a foundation chain), sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc, sc in last 2 sts. Ch 1. Turn. R4: Sc in first 3 sts, 2 sc, sc in next 4 sts. Ch 3. Turn. (12) R5: Sc in 2 ch sts, sc in next 5 sts, 2 sc, sc in last 3 sts. Ch 1. Turn. R6: Sc in first 2 sts, 2 sc, sc in next 8 sts. Ch 3. Turn. (15) R7: Sc in 2 ch sts, sc in next 8 sts, 2 sc, sc in last 3 sts. Ch 1. Turn. R8: Sc in first 3 sts, 2 sc in each of next 2 sts, sc in next 9 sts. Ch 2. Turn. (18) R9: Sc in 1 ch st, sc in next 11 sts, 2 sc, sc in last 4 sts.

Info :

Fasten off, leaving long tail for attaching. If your wings are curling, you may want to block them (there are many online tutorials and videos for blocking). I spray blocked and pinned these wings into shape and let them dry overnight. Using yarn needle, attach wings to back of angel as pictured.

β€” Lamb :

Ears (make two) :

Using beige, sc 6 into a magic ring. Slip stitch into first sc and pull yarn through. Fasten off, leaving tail to attach.

Head :

R1: Using beige, sc 6 into a magic ring. (6) R2: (Sc, 2 sc) 3x around. (9) R3: 2 sc in each of first 3 sts, sc in next 6 sts. (12) R4: (Sc, 2 sc) 6x around. (18) R5: (Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc) 6x around. (24) R6-9: Switch to white. Sc in each st around. R10: (Sc in next 2 sts, invdec) 6x around. (18) R11: (Sc, invdec) 6x around. (12)

Round 12 :

R12: Sc2tog around until closed.

Info :

Place safety eyes between rows 4 and 5, about 6 stitches apart. To embroider the nose as pictured, first use gray yarn to make a Y shape. Then, use pink yarn to fill in the top of the Y. Then attach the ears between at row 8, about 10 stitches apart. Stuff the head and then move on to round 12.

Assembly Instructions

  • Attach safety eyes between rows 7 and 8 for heads (or between rows 4 and 5 for the lamb), spacing about 6 stitches apart, then embroider eyelash or nose details before stuffing.
  • Insert a plastic craft screen cut to roughly 2" diameter at the base while creating the body (after row 8) to keep the base flat, then add stuffing and stitch the base closed.
  • Pin the beard into place and use long yarn tails from the beginning chain and the end to secure both sides, then sew across the top to keep it level under the nose.
  • Position arms on either side of the body between the rounds indicated (after stuffing begins), angle slightly and use matching yarn to securely sew them in place, then bring hands together in front if pictured.
  • Assemble the manger by stitching the long and short sides to the base to form a box, stuff lightly, attach the top around each edge, then add layered gold yarn strands as 'hay' and trim to desired length.

Important Notes

  • πŸ’‘Use a stitch marker to keep track of the start of each round, especially when working in continuous rounds and changing colors.
  • πŸ’‘Stuff gradually and evenly as you shape heads and bodies to avoid lumps; add firm stuffing to the base but not so much that it distorts the silhouette.
  • πŸ’‘Weave in ends as you go and leave long tails where instructed for sewing beards, head coverings, and other details for easier assembly.
  • πŸ’‘Cut and insert a plastic mesh screen at the base before stuffing to help figures stand; ensure it fits inside before adding final stuffing.

This joyful Nativity crochet set brings a tiny, handcrafted scene to your shelf or holiday table. Each figure is designed to be sweet, stable, and full of personality, perfect for gifting or family traditions. Create a whole cast of characters and watch a little world of handmade charm come together. πŸ§Άβœ¨πŸ™

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FAQs

What size will the finished piece be?

Finished figures range in size from about 4" to 7 1/2" in height when using the recommended worsted yarn and a 3.5 mm hook.

Can I use different yarn weights for this pattern?

Yes, you can use different yarn weights but the finished size and look will change; use a suitably sized hook and be aware that smaller yarn requires smaller safety eyes and more detailed sewing.

Do I need prior crochet experience for this pattern?

This pattern is rated intermediate, so basic crochet knowledge such as working in magic rings, single crochet, increases, and decreases is recommended.

How long does this project typically take to complete?

Most crafters take multiple sessions to complete the entire nativity set β€” expect around 12-15 hours in total depending on speed and how many figures you make.

How do I make the manger hay effect?

Cut lengths of gold yarn about 5" long, fold and hook them into the fabric with your crochet hook in layers, then trim to the desired length to create a dense hay look.